From the Guidelines
Insulin resistance symptoms include increased hunger, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, and weight gain particularly around the abdomen, as noted in the most recent guidelines 1.
Key Symptoms
- Increased hunger
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- High blood pressure
- Elevated blood sugar levels
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans) on the neck, armpits, or groin areas
Many individuals with insulin resistance have no obvious symptoms initially, which is why it is often called a "silent condition" 1. The condition develops when cells in muscles, fat, and liver don't respond properly to insulin, causing the pancreas to produce more insulin to help glucose enter cells. Over time, this overproduction can't keep up with demand, leading to prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
Risk Factors
- Being overweight
- Physical inactivity
- Genetic predisposition Regular physical activity, weight management, and a diet low in refined carbohydrates can help improve insulin sensitivity, as suggested by recent studies 1. If you suspect insulin resistance, consult a healthcare provider for proper testing, as early intervention can prevent progression to more serious conditions.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection and intervention are crucial in preventing the progression of insulin resistance to more serious conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, as highlighted in the latest research 1. Screening for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes risk through an informal assessment of risk factors or with an assessment tool is recommended to guide providers on whether performing a diagnostic test is appropriate 1.
From the Research
Symptoms of Insulin Resistance
The symptoms of insulin resistance are not always apparent, but several studies have identified associated risk factors and complications. Some of the key findings include:
- Insulin resistance can be linked to diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and other abnormalities 2
- The insulin resistance syndrome is characterized by a cluster of related abnormalities, including hypertension, atherogenic dyslipidemia, and significant vascular and hemodynamic abnormalities 3
- Insulin resistance is closely associated with the development of cardiovascular disease risk factors, including high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and elevated plasma concentrations of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) 4
- Sedentary lifestyle and high-calorie dietary habits can contribute to insulin resistance, which can lead to micro or macro angiopathy, peripheral arterial dysfunction, and increased risk of coronary artery blockage, stroke, and heart failure 5
- Obesity is a triggering factor for diabetes associated with insulin resistance, and adipose tissue can release non-esterified fatty acids, glycerol, hormones, and pro-inflammatory cytokines that participate in the development of insulin resistance 6
Associated Risk Factors
Some of the associated risk factors for insulin resistance include:
- Family history of diabetes
- Personal history of gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, or impaired glucose tolerance
- Obesity, particularly abdominal obesity
- Physical inactivity
- High-calorie dietary habits
- Elevated triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease
Complications
Insulin resistance can lead to several complications, including:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Hypertension
- Dyslipidemia
- Micro or macro angiopathy
- Peripheral arterial dysfunction
- Coronary artery blockage
- Stroke
- Heart failure