When the cells in your body stop responding appropriately to insulin, you can develop what’s known as insulin resistance.
Insulin resistance can often lead to prediabetes, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, and while experts aren’t exactly sure what causes insulin resistance, oftentimes a sedentary lifestyle and excess weight are contributing factors.
The good news? Insulin resistance can be reversed if it’s caught early. So, Elaine Phuah, DO, MBA, FACOI, Leon Tio, DO, MA, FACOI, and the rest of our team at Clover Internal Medicine Associates in Fort Worth, Texas, want to discuss what can lead to insulin resistance and how to take control of your health in this month’s blog.
When you eat, your stomach breaks down carbohydrates so they can be converted into glucose (sugar), which your cells use for energy or store for later. Glucose needs a key to unlock cells so they can absorb and utilize the energy, and that’s precisely what insulin is.
Insulin is a hormone that’s secreted by your pancreas. When glucose enters your bloodstream, your pancreas produces insulin to ensure glucose is used efficiently.
When you’re insulin-resistant, your cells become less efficient at storing or using glucose. The glucose remains in the bloodstream, causing blood sugar levels to climb. In response, your pancreas begins producing more insulin to remove the excess glucose.
Eventually, your pancreas can’t keep up with the demand, leaving you with chronically high blood sugar levels and the potential for prediabetes or full-blown type 2 diabetes.
There isn’t always a singular, clear-cut cause of insulin resistance. However, you may be at an increased risk for the condition if you have high blood pressure, lead a sedentary lifestyle, carry excess weight, or have a family history of diabetes.
Symptoms are often subtle but may include:
You may also notice an unusual increase in appetite or significant cravings for carbohydrates or sugary foods.
If you have risk factors for insulin resistance or recognize any of the indicators for the condition, a comprehensive physical exam, a review of your medical history, and diagnostic tests are crucial.
If our team does discover that you’re insulin-resistant, rest assured that there are many things you can do to manage blood sugar levels.
One of the most important things you can do for insulin resistance is to change your diet. This includes eating more vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains while reducing or eliminating unhealthy fats and foods that are heavily processed or high in added sugar.
In addition, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight can boost your physical health and correct insulin resistance.
Schedule an appointment with our team by calling our office or using our online booking feature today.
