Insulin resistance

Definition

Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body's cells become less responsive to the hormone insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. This can occur due to various factors, including obesity, inactivity, and genetic predisposition. Over time, insulin resistance can lead to serious health complications such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Insulin resistance is commonly associated with obesity, especially visceral fat accumulation around the abdomen.
2. Physical inactivity is a significant contributor to insulin resistance, as regular exercise helps improve cellular sensitivity to insulin.
3. The condition is often identified through elevated fasting blood glucose levels or an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
4. Insulin resistance can lead to compensatory hyperinsulinemia, where the pancreas produces more insulin to overcome the decreased effectiveness of insulin on cells.
5. Lifestyle modifications such as diet changes and increased physical activity are essential strategies in reversing insulin resistance and improving overall health.

Review Questions

• How does obesity influence insulin resistance and what mechanisms are involved?
  • Obesity, particularly with excess visceral fat, significantly influences insulin resistance through several mechanisms. Adipose tissue releases free fatty acids and inflammatory cytokines that impair insulin signaling pathways. This disruption leads to decreased glucose uptake by cells, resulting in higher blood glucose levels. The accumulation of fat also affects hormones related to appetite and metabolism, further exacerbating insulin resistance.
• Discuss the relationship between aging and the development of insulin resistance.
  • As individuals age, they often experience changes in body composition, such as increased fat mass and decreased muscle mass, which can contribute to insulin resistance. Aging can also lead to decreased physical activity levels and hormonal changes that impact glucose metabolism. Additionally, older adults may be more likely to develop chronic conditions like hypertension and dyslipidemia that further exacerbate insulin resistance.
• Evaluate the impact of lifestyle interventions on reversing insulin resistance and reducing the risk of diabetes.
  • Lifestyle interventions play a crucial role in reversing insulin resistance and decreasing diabetes risk. Regular physical activity enhances glucose uptake by muscles and improves overall metabolic health. Dietary changes, such as reducing refined carbohydrates and increasing fiber intake, also help regulate blood sugar levels. These interventions not only target weight loss but also positively affect hormonal balance and inflammatory markers, leading to better insulin sensitivity and overall improved health outcomes.

Related terms

Glucose: A simple sugar that is an important energy source for the body and the primary fuel for brain function.

Metabolic syndrome: A cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes; it often includes insulin resistance.

Beta cells: Cells in the pancreas responsible for producing and secreting insulin; they play a key role in regulating blood glucose levels.