Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells, especially in muscle, fat, and liver, do not respond effectively to insulin, impairing glucose uptake. This leads the pancreas to produce more insulin (hyperinsulinemia), eventually causing high blood sugar and risking type 2 diabetes. It underlies metabolic syndrome, NAFLD, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.

Causes

Key factors include excess visceral fat, physical inactivity, poor diet high in sugars and refined carbs, chronic stress, and genetics. Obesity, particularly abdominal fat, triggers inflammation that disrupts insulin signaling. Conditions like PCOS and certain syndromes also contribute.

Symptoms

Often silent until advanced, signs include fatigue, hunger, dark skin patches (acanthosis nigricans), weight gain, and high blood pressure. Later, it manifests as prediabetes symptoms like thirst and frequent urination.

Management

Lifestyle changes are primary: calorie restriction, low-glycemic diets rich in whole foods, 150+ minutes weekly exercise, and weight loss improve sensitivity. Medications like metformin aid in prevention; monitor via blood tests. Stress reduction and sleep enhancement outcomes.