The prevalence of insulin resistance among adults ranges from 15.5 to 46.5% worldwide. This condition can affect anyone at any age, but it is reported that more than 40% of adults above the age of 50 may be at risk.
With this condition, a certain concentration of insulin results in a less-than-expected biologic effect. This causes the body to use this hormone inefficiently. The pancreas releases additional amounts to compensate for the defect, which results in the pancreas cells becoming less capable of meeting the body’s demands. As a result, the glucose levels escalate, eventually causing diabetes.
Insulin resistance is, in fact, a silent epidemic that we have to face. So, let’s talk about the risks, the symptoms, and the consequences.
Signs of insulin resistance
The symptoms of insulin resistance are not very obvious, so it would be safest to get a blood test to check your blood sugar levels. Some signs might be confusing and signal other conditions, such as high triglycerides and high blood pressure. However, you should still pay attention to the following:
Also, if you have insulin resistance, you may notice patches of dark, velvety skin. A waistline over 35 inches in women and over 40 inches in men could also indicate insulin resistance.
Risk factors for insulin resistance
There are some things, including lifestyle and medical history, that can make insulin resistance more likely. One of the most prevalent ones is obesity, particularly belly fat. An inactive lifestyle could contribute to developing this condition too.
Some of these, such as a diet high in carbohydrates and smoking, are in your control. However, others, such as gestational diabetes, some health conditions, and a family history of diabetes, are not something you can easily influence. People older than 45 are also at higher risk. Finally, certain medications like antipsychotics, HIV treatment, and steroids can make this condition more likely.
How is insulin resistance diagnosed?
As mentioned, the safest way to diagnose insulin resistance is by getting a blood test. But first, your physician will want to know about your family’s medical history. A physical exam will also be needed, and it includes checking your blood pressure and weighing you. Blood testing includes three exams: fasting plasma glucose test, oral glucose tolerance test, and hemoglobin A1c test. These three together should measure your blood sugar in different conditions — after not eating for a while, after drinking a sugary solution, and an average value for a couple of previous months. The latter can help diagnose prediabetes, as well.
What you need to know about prevention
When we discussed risk factors for insulin resistance, we said that some can’t be changed or controlled. However, it is possible to take steps to reduce the likelihood of developing this condition. One of them is using a continuous glucose monitor, whether or not you’re on the diabetes spectrum. This way, you will be able to know which foods to be careful with and discover what is optimal for your body.
Either way, make sure to eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, legumes, fish, whole grains, and lean protein. Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day for five or more days a week can be very good for prevention. Moderate activity, such as jogging or brisk walking, can be sufficient if you’re not in shape. Finally, if you’re a smoker, know that kicking the habit will help you prevent insulin resistance as well.
In closing: manage insulin resistance to prevent bigger issues
We’ve already mentioned that insulin resistance can result in the pancreas trying to make up for the lack of insulin. This can work for a while, but over time, this organ won’t be able to keep up. This may lead your blood sugar levels to rise and result in prediabetes and, eventually, Type 2 diabetes. Of course, prediabetes can be managed, but when it’s not, it will develop into a more dangerous condition.
If insulin resistance goes untreated, it could lead to severely high or low blood sugar, kidney disease, heart attack, stroke, cancer, and eye problems. Your doctor may prescribe metformin to keep it in check, but you’ll want to lead a healthy lifestyle for the best results.