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mgr farm. z Apteki Zdrowie Poznań 29 Posts View posts
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Insulin resistance: a challenge to health and well-being
What is insulin resistance?
Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body's cells become less sensitive to insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels and in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. When tissues become less sensitive to insulin, these processes can be disrupted, leading to a number of metabolic disorders.
Insulin has several important functions, including: helping to lower blood sugar levels by allowing it to move into cells, where it is used as an energy source. Insulin helps convert excess glucose into fat, which is stored in adipose tissue. Insulin aids in protein synthesis by providing cells with individual amino acids.
When cells become less sensitive to insulin, we speak of insulin resistance. This phenomenon leads to a number of metabolic problems, such as increased glucose production in the liver, decreased sugar uptake by peripheral tissues, impaired fat metabolism and excessive insulin secretion.
Causes of insulin resistance
Insulin resistance can have a variety of causes, and its development usually results from the interaction of many factors. Here are some of the main causes of insulin resistance:
Overweight and obesity:
One of the main risk factors for insulin resistance is the presence of excessive body fat, especially so-called "visceral fat" that accumulates around organs in the abdominal cavity. Adipose tissue produces substances such as leptin, visfatin, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and TNF-alpha, which can affect the tissues' inappropriate response to insulin.
Physical inactivity:
Regular physical activity has a beneficial effect on cellular sensitivity to insulin. Lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to the development of insulin resistance.
Improper diet:
A diet high in calories, especially those with a high glycemic index, can contribute to insulin resistance. Consuming high amounts of simple sugars, saturated fats, and highly processed foods can disrupt metabolic balance.
Genetics:
There is a propensity for insulin resistance due to the inheritance of certain genetic traits. People with a family history of diabetes or other metabolic disorders may be more susceptible to developing insulin resistance.
Endocrine disorders:
Insulin resistance can be associated with a variety of endocrine disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, acromegaly, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hyperadrenocorticism, and associated with pregnancy.
Age and gender:
The risk of developing insulin resistance increases with age, especially in older people. In addition, men are more prone to insulin resistance than women.
Uses:
Cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can influence the development of insulin resistance.
Pregnancy:
The period of pregnancy, especially in the second trimester, can lead to physiological insulin resistance. In some cases, this can lead to gestational diabetes.
Certain medications:
Some medications, such as certain birth control pills, thiazide and loop diuretics, glucocorticosteroids or calcium channel blockers used to treat hypertension, can affect the development of insulin resistance.
Symptoms of insulin resistance
Symptoms of insulin resistance are usually nonspecific, which can make it difficult to diagnose the condition. Below are some symptoms that may suggest insulin resistance:
Drowsiness after meals:
After eating a meal, a person with insulin resistance may experience excessive fatigue and sleepiness.
Sleep problems:
People with insulin resistance may experience difficulty falling asleep or maintaining sleep.
Weight gain:
Despite attempts to reduce weight through diet and physical activity, patients with insulin resistance may encounter difficulty losing weight.
"Wolf hunger" attacks:
Feeling hungry after meals, especially those rich in carbohydrates, can be a symptom of insulin resistance.
Hypertension:
Coexistence of insulin resistance with hypertension is common.
Increased uric acid levels:
Insulin resistance can affect uric acid metabolism, which can lead to elevated uric acid concentrations in the blood.
Hypertriglyceridemia:
An increase in blood triglyceride levels is another factor that can accompany insulin resistance.
Fatigue and irritability:
People with insulin resistance may experience chronic fatigue, irritability and problems concentrating.
Headaches:
Frequent headaches can be one of the symptoms of insulin resistance.
Appetite for sweets:
Increased cravings for sweet foods and carbohydrate-rich foods may be associated with insulin resistance.
Excessive sweating:
Insulin resistance can affect sweat regulation, which can lead to excessive sweating.
Difficulty in weight loss:
Even when making efforts to lose weight, people with insulin resistance may encounter difficulties in the weight loss process.
High blood insulin levels:
Despite the presence of insulin resistance, there may initially be increased insulin production, which can lead to hyperinsulinemia.
Diagnosis of insulin resistance
Diagnosing insulin resistance can be a challenge, as there are no clear standard tests to directly confirm the condition. Nevertheless, there are various diagnostic methods and indicators that physicians can use to assess insulin resistance. Below, I outline some diagnostic methods used in clinical practice:
Blood sugar tests:
Measurement of fasting glucose levels: Blood glucose levels are determined after a minimum of 8 hours of fasting. Oral glucose load test (OGTT): The patient drinks a solution containing glucose, and then the blood glucose level is measured after a specified period of time (usually after 2 hours).
Insulin determination:
Measuring the insulin concentration in the blood allows you to assess how the body reacts to the presence of glucose.
Metabolic buckle method:
Used mainly in research, it involves administering glucose and insulin to a patient at the same time, assessing the body's response to these substances.
Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA) method:
The HOMA-IR (Insulin Resistance) index is calculated from glucose and insulin levels determined in the patient in the morning at fasting.
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) supplemented with insulin determination:
After drinking a glucose solution, both glucose and insulin levels are measured after a specified period of time (usually after 2 hours).
C-peptide determination:
C-peptide is secreted along with insulin and is assessed as an additional indicator of pancreatic function.
Scientific laboratory testing methods:
Research uses advanced techniques such as studies at the molecular and genetic levels.
Effects of insulin resistance
Insulin resistance, when not controlled and treated, can lead to a number of serious health effects. Below are the most common effects of insulin resistance:
Type 2 diabetes:
Insulin resistance is one of the main risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes. In the initial phase, the body tries to compensate for insulin resistance through increased production of the hormone, but over time the pancreas can stop keeping up, leading to sugar imbalances.
Metabolic syndrome:
Insulin resistance is one of the key components of metabolic syndrome, which also includes abdominal obesity, hypertension, elevated triglycerides, reduced levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and elevated blood sugar.
Cardiovascular diseases:
The metabolic syndrome associated with insulin resistance increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease and stroke.
Hypertension:
Insulin resistance can lead to impaired blood pressure regulation, which increases the risk of hypertension.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS):
In women, insulin resistance can promote the development of PCOS, which manifests as menstrual disorders, infertility and hyperandrogenism, among other symptoms.
Liver diseases:
Insulin resistance is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can lead to inflammation and liver damage.
Obesity:
Insulin resistance often coexists with overweight and obesity, and at the same time, obesity can exacerbate insulin resistance, creating a vicious cycle.
Kidney disease:
In some cases, insulin resistance can affect kidney function, leading to kidney failure.
Neurodegenerative diseases:
There are studies suggesting a link between insulin resistance and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
Endocrine system problems:
Insulin resistance can affect the function of many other hormones, which can lead to various endocrine disorders.
Treatment of insulin resistance
Treatment of insulin resistance includes both pharmacological and non-medical approaches. It is worth noting that successful management of insulin resistance often requires changes in lifestyle and eating habits. Below, I outline various aspects of insulin resistance treatment:
Lifestyle modifications:
Changing eating habits plays a key role. A low glycemic index diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats and protein is recommended. Avoiding highly processed, sugar- and fat-rich foods is important. Regular physical activity is key to improving insulin sensitivity. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming and cycling, can help reduce body fat and improve glucose metabolism.
Supplementation:
Some studies suggest that supplementation with sodium butyrate may help reduce insulin resistance by affecting glucagon metabolism and lipid metabolism. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have beneficial effects on cellular sensitivity to insulin. Chromium affects glucose metabolism and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Some studies suggest that cinnamon may improve insulin sensitivity. Bacterial flora in the gut can affect metabolic health, including blood sugar regulation.
Regular health monitoring:
People with insulin resistance should regularly monitor their health indicators, such as blood glucose levels, insulin levels, and monitor other parameters associated with metabolic syndrome, such as blood pressure and lipid levels.
Prevention of insulin resistance
Prevention of insulin resistance plays a key role in maintaining metabolic health. Here are some effective steps you can take to prevent insulin resistance:
A healthy diet:
Consuming fiber helps regulate blood glucose levels. Vegetables, fruits, whole-grain cereal products are excellent sources of fiber. Avoid highly processed foods with a high glycemic index and instead choose those with a lower index, which helps control blood sugar levels.
Regular physical activity:
Regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming and cycling, improves insulin sensitivity. Weight-bearing exercise helps build muscle mass, which benefits insulin management.
Weight control:
Maintaining a healthy body weight is key to preventing insulin resistance. Excessive body fat can increase insulin resistance.
Avoiding stimulants:
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to insulin resistance. It is important to consume alcohol in moderation. Smoking can increase the risk of insulin resistance, so smoking cessation is recommended.
Regular health checkups:
Regularly checking blood sugar levels allows for early detection of possible metabolic disorders. Regular blood tests, weight assessment and blood pressure monitoring are important for monitoring metabolic health.
Stress management:
Effective relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing, can help control stress levels, which can affect insulin function. Lack of adequate sleep can disrupt metabolism and affect insulin sensitivity. It is worthwhile to ensure regular and healthy sleep. Sitting for long periods of time can contribute to insulin resistance. It is important to get up and move around regularly.
Bibliography
Reaven, G. M. (1988). Banting Lecture 1988. role of insulin resistance in human disease. Diabetes, 37(12), 1595-1607.
Kahn, S. E., Hull, R. L., & Utzschneider, K. M. (2006). Mechanisms linking obesity to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Nature, 444(7121), 840-846.
DeFronzo, R. A., & Tripathy, D. (2009). Skeletal muscle insulin resistance is the primary defect in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes care, 32(suppl 2), S157-S163.
Eckel, R. H., Kahn, S. E., Ferrannini, E., Goldfine, A. B., Nathan, D. M., Schwartz, M. W., ... & Smith, R. J. (2011). Obesity and type 2 diabetes: what can be unified and what needs to be individualized? The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 96(6), 1654-1663.