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Reverse the Effects of Insulin Resistance

What is Insulin Resistance?

A condition known as insulin resistance occurs when the body's cells do not react to insulin as intended. The hormone insulin, which is made by the pancreas, controls blood glucose levels by assisting in the movement of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it can be used as an energy source. Increased blood glucose levels result from cells losing their ability to absorb glucose from the bloodstream when they develop insulin resistance.

Insulin resistance can be a precursor to type 2 diabetes, a disease in which the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels. Other health problems associated with insulin resistance include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and an increased risk of heart disease.

The exact causes of insulin resistance are not well understood, but factors that are thought to contribute include obesity, physical inactivity, and a diet high in sugar and processed foods. Treatments for insulin resistance may include lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, as well as medication to improve insulin sensitivity.

Risk Factors for Insulin Resistance

A family history of type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome are two risk factors for developing insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is more likely to develop in those who are fat or overweight, sedentary, postmenopausal, and of specific ethnic backgrounds, such as African American and Hispanic/Latino. Smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and polycystic ovarian syndrome are additional conditions that might cause insulin resistance (PCOS)

There are several risk factors for insulin resistance, including:

  1. Obesity: Excess body fat, especially in the abdominal area, can contribute to insulin resistance.
  2. Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of insulin resistance.
  3. Family history: A family history of type 2 diabetes increases the risk of insulin resistance.
  4. Age: The risk of insulin resistance increases as people get older.
  5. Race: Insulin resistance is more common in African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans compared to non-Hispanic whites.
  6. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a condition that affects women and is associated with insulin resistance.
  7. High blood pressure: High blood pressure can contribute to insulin resistance.
  8. High levels of triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood, and high levels can contribute to insulin resistance.
  9. Sleep deprivation: Lack of sleep can affect insulin sensitivity and increase the risk of insulin resistance.
  10. Poor diet: A diet high in sugar and processed foods can increase the risk of insulin resistance.

It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that a person will develop insulin resistance. However, these factors can increase the likelihood of developing the condition, and should be considered when evaluating overall health and well-being.

Symptoms, Testing, and Diagnosis of Insulin Resistance

Your doctor may order a number of tests to determine whether you have insulin resistance if you have risk factors for it. Fasting blood sugar and insulin levels, an oral glucose tolerance test, and an A1C test for glycated hemoglobin are examples of commonly used tests. Additionally, if you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, your doctor may perform a metabolic syndrome or diabetes screening. The urine C-peptide test and the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp test are other assays that can assist detect insulin resistance.

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose insulin resistance:

  1. Fasting plasma glucose test: This test measures the level of glucose in the blood after an overnight fast. If the level is higher than normal, it may indicate insulin resistance or the presence of type 2 diabetes.
  2. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): This test measures the body's ability to process glucose. During the OGTT, a person is given a sugary drink and their blood glucose levels are measured at regular intervals over a 2-hour period. If the body is unable to effectively regulate glucose levels, it may indicate insulin resistance.
  3. HbA1c test: This test measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. An elevated HbA1c level may indicate insulin resistance or the presence of type 2 diabetes.
  4. Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA): This test calculates insulin resistance by using the results of a fasting plasma glucose test and fasting insulin test. The HOMA index provides an estimate of insulin sensitivity.
  5. Insulin tolerance test (ITT): During this test, insulin is injected into the body and blood glucose levels are measured over time. If insulin resistance is present, the body will require more insulin to regulate glucose levels effectively.

It's important to note that these tests should only be used to diagnose insulin resistance under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The results of these tests, along with a person's medical history and physical examination, can help to determine the presence and severity of insulin resistance.

Treatments for Insulin Resistance Through Functional Medicine

Although there is no known treatment for insulin resistance, it can be controlled with dietary and lifestyle changes, frequent exercise, and stress reduction. Exercise and weight loss have been demonstrated to aid obese or overweight people with their insulin sensitivity. To assist reduce blood glucose levels, your doctor could also advise taking drugs such thiazolidinediones (TZDs), biguanides, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, or glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists.

Functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of a condition rather than just managing symptoms. Here are some of the treatments for insulin resistance that may be recommended in a functional medicine approach:

  1. Diet: A diet that is high in whole, nutrient-dense foods and low in processed foods and added sugars can help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance. This may include a focus on eating plenty of non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and protein, and limiting the consumption of simple carbohydrates and processed foods.
  2. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance. This may include a combination of aerobic exercise, resistance training, and stretching.
  3. Sleep: Getting adequate sleep is important for overall health, and can also help to improve insulin sensitivity.
  4. Stress management: Chronic stress can contribute to insulin resistance. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and exercise, can help to reduce stress and improve insulin sensitivity.
  5. Supplements: Certain supplements, such as magnesium, alpha-lipoic acid, and cinnamon, may help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance.
  6. Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance. This may include metformin, thiazolidinediones, and GLP-1 receptor agonists.

It's important to note that individual treatment plans will vary based on a person's unique needs and health history. A functional medicine practitioner will work with a person to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific health concerns and goals.