From the Guidelines
Having a normal Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with elevated insulin levels is a strong indicator of insulin resistance, a condition that may precede type 2 diabetes, and requires immediate lifestyle interventions to prevent disease progression. This condition, often referred to as hyperinsulinemia, signifies that the body is producing extra insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels, which can be an early warning sign for the development of type 2 diabetes 1. To address this, several key strategies can be employed:
- Lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly, to improve insulin sensitivity.
- Weight loss, even a 5-10% reduction, can significantly help in managing insulin resistance and preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes.
- Dietary changes focusing on whole foods, complex carbohydrates, and reduced sugar intake can also improve insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health.
- Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and may be a beneficial strategy for some individuals. In terms of medical intervention, medications like metformin might be prescribed in some cases to improve insulin sensitivity, especially if lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient 1. It's crucial to understand that insulin resistance occurs because the body's cells become resistant to insulin's effects, forcing the pancreas to produce more insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Without proper intervention, the pancreas may eventually become unable to keep up, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and the development of diabetes. Regular monitoring of both insulin and glucose levels is vital to track progress and prevent the progression to diabetes, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management of insulin resistance 1.