Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is a metabolic disorder in which the cells do not respond effectively to insulin, an important hormone for regulating blood sugar. Insulin has the property of transporting sugar (glucose) from the blood into the cells so that it can be used for energy metabolism.
Due to the cells’ resistance to insulin, the glucose remains in the blood and the blood sugar level rises, which can lead to dangerous consequences.
Insulin resistance is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.
What happens with Insulin Resistance?
In the case of insulin resistance, the vital hormone insulin has a reduced or absent effect on the peripheral cells. As a result, less glucose is released into the cells, causing the blood sugar level to rise. The pancreas begins to produce more insulin to compensate for the situation, which leads to an increased concentration of insulin in the blood.
At the same time, the energy balance of the cells suffers because the glucose does not arrive where it is needed.
The permanently elevated blood glucose level, the increased insulin levels and the restrictions in the energy balance of the cells lead to the typical symptoms.
Symptoms of Insulin Resistance
The symptoms of insulin resistance can manifest themselves as follows:
- Weight gain
- fatigue
- Frequent urination and increased appetite
To counteract the imbalance, the pancreas produces more insulin. A vicious circle develops. This condition can go on for several years without symptoms until the pancreas is exhausted and insulin production is reduced or stopped. If compensation is no longer possible, the symptoms of type 2 diabetes develop.
Causes of Insulin Intolerance
The causes of insulin intolerance are as follows:
- Increased visceral fat (fat around the internal organs)
- Mitochondriopathy
- Oxidative stress
- Intestinal disorders such as leaky gut
- Toxic exposure to e.g. arsenic or bisphenol-A (BPA) in plastic fillings
- Genetic predispositions
- Disorders of the body's own detoxification system
- Micronutrient deficiencies
- Unhealthy diet
- Silent inflammations
Treatment of Insulin Resistance
The treatment of insulin intolerance focuses on improving insulin sensitivity.
A balanced diet, regular physical activity and weight management are key elements. In some cases, medication such as metformin can be prescribed to regulate blood sugar levels. Intermittent fasting is also very effective.
Other effective therapies of interdisciplinary medicine are
- Elimination of heavy metals and other toxins
- intestinal cleansing
- Adjustment of vitamins, minerals and trace elements
- Infusion therapy
- Mitochondrial therapy
Early detection and lifestyle changes play a key role in managing insulin resistance. Individual advice from a doctor is important in order to develop tailor-made therapeutic approaches and prevent health consequences.
Med. pract. Dana Hreus M.A.
Insulin resistance is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Cause-oriented therapy should begin as early as possible so that the consequential damage can be limited.
Further information
The information listed contains relevant topics and serves to improve understanding.