Symptoms of Insulin Resistance: How to Recognize It and What We Can Do About It

Insulin resistance is a condition in which cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to an increase in insulin levels and instability of blood glucose levels. This problem is not only associated with people with diabetes, but can also affect people with a healthy lifestyle. In this article, we will look at the symptoms and risk factors of insulin resistance and how to prevent and treat this condition.

What exactly is insulin resistance?

Insulin is a key hormone produced by the pancreas and plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Insulin helps cells take up glucose (blood sugar) from the blood, which is a kind of energy source. Insulin resistance means that cells become less responsive to this hormone, which causes insulin levels in the blood to be higher than normal.

Insulin resistance is one of the key factors in the development of type 2 diabetes and is linked to a number of other health problems. However, because the disease is difficult to identify, many people do not recognise the symptoms of insulin resistance and therefore do not get help and treatment in time. In this post, we will look at what signs may indicate insulin resistance and what you can do to prevent or treat the condition.

Symptoms of Insulin Resistance

Symptoms of insulin resistance can vary and are not always clearly linked to the condition. However, some common and potential symptoms that may indicate someone has insulin resistance include:

1. High blood sugar

People with insulin resistance may have higher blood glucose levels than a healthy person, often above the healthy range, especially after meals.

2. Increased hunger and food cravings

People with insulin resistance often experience increased hunger and food cravings. This is because the cells are not able to absorb glucose efficiently, so the brain sends signals to the body that it needs more energy, and this results in binge eating.

3. Increased Weight or Difficulty Losing Weight

Insulin resistance can contribute to weight gain or make it more difficult to lose weight. Insulin also has an effect on energy-storing fat cells, which can lead to weight gain.

4. High triglyceride levels

Triglycerides are fats that are found in the blood. People with insulin resistance often have higher triglyceride levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

5. High blood pressure

Insulin resistance can also contribute to high blood pressure, which also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

6. Skin problems

Hormonal changes associated with insulin resistance can also cause skin problems such as acne or dark spots.

7. Sensitised Eyes

People with insulin resistance often find that their eyes are more sensitive to light and they often feel itchy, dry or irritated.

8. Menstrual And Sexual Disorders

Insulin resistance can cause menstrual problems, but it can also lead to a decrease in libido.

9. Fatigue and lack of energy

Insulin resistance causes cells to be unable to use glucose efficiently for energy, which can lead to fatigue and a general lack of energy.

10. Sweetness And Junk Food Cravings

People with insulin resistance often crave sweets and foods with a high glycaemic index.

Risk Factors

The development of insulin resistance is influenced by a number of risk factors. It is important to be aware of these factors as they can help prevent and treat the condition. The most important risk factors include:

1. Obesity

Obesity is one of the biggest risk factors for insulin resistance. Extra fat tissue can cause inflammation and make it harder for insulin to work.

2. Sedentary Lifestyle

An active lifestyle contributes to maintaining insulin sensitivity. A sedentary lifestyle reduces the effectiveness of insulin and increases the risk of insulin resistance.

3. Family History

If you have type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance in your family, your own risk also increases. Inherited genetic factors can play a role in the development of insulin resistance.

4. Abnormal Blood Fat Levels

High triglyceride and low HDL (good) cholesterol levels are associated with insulin resistance.

5. Age

The risk of insulin resistance increases with age, especially over 45.

6. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, women may have an increased need for insulin, and insulin resistance may develop more easily during this period.

7. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS is a condition that can also be related to insulin resistance and cause hormonal imbalance.

8. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and alcohol consumption can increase the risk of insulin resistance.

9. Lack of sleep

Insufficient sleep and poor sleeping habits may be related to insulin resistance.

How to Diagnose Insulin Resistance

Diagnosing insulin resistance usually requires a blood test. The most commonly used tests include:

1. Blood glucose measurement

Measuring the fasting blood sugar level (glucose) helps to detect the initial stage of insulin resistance. If your fasting blood sugar is higher than the normal range, this may indicate a problem.

2. Insulin level measurement

Insulin levels can be measured in the fasting state and after meals. If insulin levels are high and blood sugar levels rise, this may indicate insulin resistance.

3. HOMA-IR (Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) test

This is a special calculation that combines fasting blood glucose and insulin levels to assess insulin sensitivity. A high HOMA-IR value may indicate insulin resistance.

4. OGTT (Oral Glucose Tolerance Test)

During the OGTT, the fasting blood sugar level is first measured, and then the blood sugar level is measured several times after consuming a glucose solution. This helps in more accurate diagnosis of insulin resistance.

How to Treat Insulin Resistance

Treatment of insulin resistance can involve several approaches and depends on the individual situation. Below are some important steps to take to manage insulin resistance:

1. Lifestyle change

Lifestyle change is the cornerstone of insulin resistance treatment. Below are some important steps you can take:

• Exercise: Regular exercise can help increase insulin sensitivity. They recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

• Diet: Eating a healthy diet that includes foods with a low glycemic index can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Avoid simple carbohydrates like sugar and white flour and favor whole grains, vegetables, fruits, high protein foods and healthy fats.

• Body weight control: Reducing obesity can help improve insulin sensitivity. Even a small weight loss can have a positive effect.

2. Medicines

There are several medications that can help treat insulin resistance. These include insulin sensitizers and insulin supplements. The doctor decides which medicine to recommend for the individual.

3. Hormone therapy

For some women who have problems with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), hormone therapy can help treat insulin resistance.

4. Constant Attention

People living with insulin resistance need regular checks and care. Doctors and other healthcare professionals can help you monitor your blood sugar and insulin levels regularly and optimize your treatment.

Prevention

In order to prevent insulin resistance, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some key preventive measures:

• Maintain a healthy weight or lose weight if necessary.

• Exercise regularly.

• Eat a balanced diet that includes foods with a low glycemic index.

• Avoid sweets and foods with a high glycemic index.

• Check your blood sugar regularly, especially if you have risk factors.

Conclusion

Insulin resistance is a sneaky disease, its symptoms are often not obvious, making it difficult to recognise in time, and it can cause serious health problems. Knowing the symptoms and risk factors can help in timely diagnosis and treatment. Lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, exercise and medical treatments can all be effective ways to treat and prevent insulin resistance. If you think you may have insulin resistance, don't hesitate to consult an endocrinologist for appropriate treatment and advice.

Health is always a priority and recognising and treating insulin resistance is key to maintaining good long-term health. Don't ignore the signs and risks of insulin resistance and take steps to improve your health.