From the Research
For a 35-year-old woman, the optimal fasting insulin level when testing at a lab should be less than 25 mIU/L (microinternational units per milliliter), with ideal levels typically falling between 5-10 mIU/L. These values represent normal insulin function in someone without insulin resistance or diabetes. When testing insulin levels, it's essential to fast for 8-12 hours beforehand to get accurate results, as food consumption can temporarily raise insulin levels 1. The test should be done in the morning before eating or drinking anything except water. Insulin levels should be interpreted alongside blood glucose levels, as they work together to regulate energy metabolism. Insulin is produced by the pancreas in response to rising blood glucose, helping cells absorb and use glucose for energy. Elevated insulin levels may indicate insulin resistance, where cells don't respond properly to insulin, forcing the pancreas to produce more. This can be an early warning sign of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, which is associated with increased mortality and cardiovascular event rates 2. Regular testing is particularly important if you have risk factors such as family history of diabetes, overweight/obesity, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Some key points to consider:
- Fasting insulin levels should be interpreted with caution, as they can be influenced by various factors, including diet and physical activity 3.
- Metformin, a commonly used medication for diabetes prevention, has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of diabetes in individuals with prediabetes, particularly those with higher fasting plasma glucose levels at baseline 4.
- A personalized approach to managing blood glucose levels, considering individual factors such as habitual glucose excursions and insulin sensitivity, may be more effective in preventing diabetes and cardiovascular disease 1.
- Lifestyle modifications, including calorie restriction, increased physical activity, and weight loss, are also essential in preventing diabetes and improving insulin sensitivity 2.
Overall, maintaining optimal fasting insulin levels is crucial for preventing diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and regular testing and monitoring can help identify individuals at risk and inform personalized treatment strategies.