Understanding insulin resistance: Key factors, risks, and how to combat it
What condition can lead to diabetes (photo: Freepik)
Insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes, making this condition potentially life-threatening. Certain factors contribute to its development, according to Ukrainian endocrinologist Olesia Pidmurniak.
What is known
Insulin resistance is a condition where the body stops responding to insulin produced by the pancreas.
As a result, the body cannot use glucose from the blood for its energy needs. Cells signal that they require more energy, causing the pancreas to produce even more insulin.
Over time, insulin resistance can lead to prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, or metabolic syndrome.
If there are factors contributing to the development of the disease, it is crucial to consult a doctor immediately.
Factors that lead to insulin resistance
The doctor identified the main factors contributing to insulin resistance:
- Overweight and obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- High intake of harmful carbohydrates in the diet
- Smoking
- Frequent snacking
- Sleep deficiency
- Chronic stress
- Hereditary factors.
How to fight insulin resistance
The best way to combat insulin resistance is through physical activity. Exercise can significantly reduce insulin resistance both in the short term and long term.
Here are some ways to incorporate more movement into your daily life:
- Stand up and move every 90 minutes if you’ve been sitting for a long time
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator
- Move while talking on the phone or during TV commercials
- Find an activity you enjoy, such as dancing, gardening, or playing with children
- Practice daily outdoor walks
- Aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking five days a week
- Try strength training, lifting light weights two to three times a week
There is no specific diet proven to treat insulin resistance. However, some studies suggest that a diet low in fat and high in carbohydrates may worsen insulin resistance.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
