How does insulin resistance affect health?

Question

Hello doctor,

My friend is consulting a doctor for her weight problem. She has diabetes, but is it connected with high insulin? Her glucose levels are also fluctuating. Is it possible that she is prediabetic because of insulin or is it type 2 diabetes? She is worried about gaining more weight because of diabetes. Can insulin resistance lead to this? I am not sure, but she also mentioned that her insulin is high. How does insulin resistance affect her health? She is trying to manage her weight but is having trouble with her glucose levels too.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

High levels of insulin tend to go hand in hand with insulin resistance, which usually leads to type 2 diabetes. In this condition, the body's cells do not react well to insulin, thus triggering the pancreas to produce more insulin to keep the blood sugar levels at normal levels.

The fluctuations in glucose can cause what is happening to your friend. If she displays high insulin levels and blood sugar irregularities, that might mean she could be suffering from insulin resistance-prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Insulin resistance affects the distribution of fats in the body. It causes the storage of more fats in the abdominal region, hence weight gain. This cycle by itself is dangerous because weight and insulin resistance feed each other.

She must focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, possibly, weight loss maneuvers since any slight decrease in body weight can increase insulin sensitivity and stabilize glucose. She should also be closely followed by her healthcare team regarding the levels of insulin and glucose and can get further individual recommendations and treatment so that she proceeds toward betterment. Her management will require encouragement to stay proactive and informed.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.