Insulin resistance is one of the most commonly diagnosed metabolic disorders in the modern world. Although it may develop for many years without clear symptoms, it affects not only the level of glucose in the blood but also the functioning of the whole body, including the liver, the hormonal system and the cardiovascular system. More and more research shows that this problem concerns not only people with obesity or diabetes, but also young and seemingly healthy people.
Contents
- What is insulin resistance?
- Symptoms of insulin resistance
- Skin and hormonal symptoms
- Where does insulin resistance come from?
- Diet and lack of physical activity
- Stress, sleep and hormonal factors
- Insulin resistance and the liver – why is this link so important?
- How is insulin resistance diagnosed?
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- Which vitamin is lacking in insulin resistance?
- Which supplements lower the level of insulin?
- What are the symptoms of high insulin?
- References
What is insulin resistance?
Insulin resistance is a metabolic disorder in which the body’s cells respond less strongly to insulin, the hormone produced by the pancreas that is responsible for regulating the level of glucose in the blood. In practice this means that the body needs ever greater amounts of insulin in order to maintain a normal blood sugar level. The phenomenon itself is not yet diabetes, but it may increase the risk of developing it, particularly type 2 diabetes.
Insulin works a little like a key that allows glucose to pass into the cells and be used as a source of energy. When the tissues become less sensitive to this hormone, the pancreas starts to produce more of it. For a long time the body can compensate for this problem, which is why insulin resistance often develops gradually and for many years gives no clear-cut symptoms.
Symptoms of insulin resistance
The symptoms of insulin resistance can be non-specific, which is why many people do not associate them with disorders of carbohydrate metabolism for a long time. The complaints may appear gradually and vary in severity.
Most often observed are chronic tiredness after meals, drowsiness, increased cravings for sweets, difficulty reducing body weight and the build-up of fat tissue around the abdomen. Some people also experience problems with concentration, swings in energy during the day or a sudden feeling of hunger a few hours after eating.
Skin and hormonal symptoms
Insulin resistance may also affect the hormonal system. In women, menstrual disorders and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) occur more frequently. A characteristic symptom can be darker patches of skin, particularly on the back of the neck, under the arms and in the folds of the skin, described as acanthosis nigricans.
Insulin resistance does not always show itself through specific symptoms. In some people the disorder is detected by chance during laboratory tests. That is why regular checks of glucose, the lipid profile and metabolic parameters are important, especially in people who are overweight, obese or have a family history of the condition.
Where does insulin resistance come from?
Insulin resistance has complex origins and usually develops under the influence of many factors at once. Lifestyle plays an important role, but so do genetic predisposition and hormonal disorders.
The most important risk factor remains excess body weight, particularly abdominal obesity, a raised level of glucose, as well as a lack of regular physical activity. Fat tissue that accumulates around the internal organs increases inflammation and disrupts the action of insulin.
Diet and lack of physical activity
A diet rich in highly processed food, an excess of calories and a small amount of fibre are of great importance. Regularly eating products with a high glycaemic index may encourage frequent surges of insulin and worsen the sensitivity of the tissues to this hormone.
A lack of movement is just as important. Physical activity improves the use of glucose by the muscles and increases insulin sensitivity, which is why it is one of the basic elements of prevention and treatment.
Stress, sleep and hormonal factors
Chronic stress and a lack of sleep also affect metabolism. A raised level of cortisol may increase the level of glucose in the blood and intensify the build-up of fat tissue. Insulin resistance also occurs more often in people with PCOS, an underactive thyroid or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [7,8].
Insulin resistance and the liver – why is this link so important?
Insulin resistance does not concern only the pancreas and the level of glucose. More and more research shows that the liver, which takes part in regulating the metabolism of sugars and fats, also plays an important role.
In the course of insulin resistance, excessive amounts of fat may build up in the hepatocytes, that is the cells of the liver. This phenomenon is described as metabolically determined steatotic liver disease. At the same time, raised levels of triglycerides and lipid disorders are often observed.
Wanting to support normal liver function, some people reach for preparations containing ingredients that support the metabolism of lipids and the functioning of the hepatocytes, such as choline or plant extracts. One example is BestLiver. It is worth remembering, however, that supplementation does not replace treatment or a change of lifestyle.
People interested in additional solutions supporting carbohydrate metabolism can find more information in the category supplements for insulin resistance.
How is insulin resistance diagnosed?
The diagnosis of insulin resistance is based on an analysis of the symptoms, the results of laboratory tests and an assessment of risk factors. There is no single universal test that confirms the disorder. Most often, fasting glucose and insulin are measured and the HOMA-IR index is calculated. In some patients the doctor may order an oral glucose tolerance test with measurement of the insulin level after glucose has been given.
Other metabolic parameters are also important, such as the lipid profile, waist circumference, blood pressure or the activity of liver enzymes.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
A short section of questions and answers helps to organise the most important information about insulin resistance and to clear up common concerns among patients.
Which vitamin is lacking in insulin resistance?
In some people with insulin resistance a deficiency of vitamin D, magnesium and B group vitamins is observed. Deficiencies should be confirmed by laboratory tests and discussed with a doctor or dietitian.
Which supplements lower the level of insulin?
There are no supplements that guarantee a reduction in the level of insulin. Studies look at, among other things, the effect of berberine, myo-inositol, chromium and omega-3 fatty acids, but supplementation should be only an addition to a healthy lifestyle.
What are the symptoms of high insulin?
A high level of insulin may be accompanied by drowsiness after meals, increased cravings for sweets, difficulty reducing body weight, tiredness and swings in energy during the day.