Insulin Resistance

What is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. In some circumstances too much insulin is produced due to a defect in the body's regulatory mechanism, and the body's tissues such as muscle and fat become increasingly resistant to the action of the body's insulin; this is known as Insulin Resistance. In order to overcome the poorer response of the tissues to actions such as sugar control, the pancreas has to produce extra insulin to get the desired effect. Insulin Resistance is sometimes referred to as Metabolic Syndrome or Syndrome X.

What causes Insulin Resistance?

Insulin Resistance is more common in people with a strong family history, including diabetes, heart disease, weight gain, polycystic ovaries, and is worsened by a high carbohydrate snacking type diet. Other factors which worsen it include some medications, stress, pregnancy and advancing age! Insulin levels tend to rise first at puberty which is when hormonal symptoms secondary to this reveal themselves most commonly. The increase in high carbohydrate and snacking-type diet over the last three decades has resulted in an explosion in Insulin Resistance in our population and all the associated problems.

Effects of Insulin Resistance

• Cardiovascular risk increased
• Central weight gain around abdominal area increased in 30% of people
• Abnormal hormone production leading to increased risk of polycystic ovaries, sub-fertility, miscarriage, irregular periods and/or increased facial hair.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Disturbed sleeping patterns
• Mood stability affected
• Concentration levels reduced
• Bloating and bowel problems

Note: Insulin Resistance can be a precursor to Diabetes

Can Insulin Resistance be treated?

Yes. If you are experiencing some (not necessarily all) of the above symptoms, you may be insulin resistant. In this case we would recommend that you arrange a consultation at The Surrey Park Clinic. Following your consultation we may advise diagnostic tests which will enable us to identify if you are insulin resistant and subsequently to develop a treatment plan for you.

Improving Insulin Resistance reduces the tendency to put on fat, reduces central weight, reduces cardiovascular risk, and reduces the effects of abnormal hormone production and associated side effects.