What is Insulin Resistance?
Insulin resistance is a metabolic condition that occurs as a result of cells not responding adequately to the insulin hormone. In this case, the pancreas tries to produce more insulin and blood sugar balance may be disrupted over time.
On Google in recent years:
- “Insulin resistance symptoms”
- “Why can't I lose weight?”
- “Constant desire to eat sweets”
- “What causes weight gain from the belly?”
- “How to reduce insulin resistance?”
searches have increased significantly.
Because insulin resistance; It is seen as one of the most important causes of weight gain, chronic fatigue, sleep problems and the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
According to the American Diabetes Association, insulin resistance is rapidly becoming widespread around the world with the modern lifestyle.
What are the symptoms of insulin resistance?
Insulin resistance can go unnoticed for a long time. The most common symptoms are:
1. Constant Feeling of Hunger
It is common to feel hungry again shortly after eating.
Especially:
- night hungers,
- frequent snacking desire,
- carbohydrate crises
may attract attention.
2. Inability to Lose Weight
It is one of the most common complaints.
Especially:
- fat around the belly,
- Not being able to lose weight despite dieting,
- fast weight loss
may be associated with insulin resistance.
3. Intense Dessert Desire
Due to blood sugar fluctuations:
- chocolate,
- pastry,
- desire to consume sugary drinks
may increase.
4. Constant Weakness and Sleepiness
After meal:
- feeling of heaviness,
- sleep flushes,
- low energy
could be.
5. Fat in the Abdominal Area
Increased waist circumference is one of the important symptoms.
Belly type fat attracts attention, especially in men.
What Causes Insulin Resistance?
Main causes:
- Still life
- Excess sugar consumption
- Processed foods
- Irregular sleep
- Chronic stress
- Overweight
- Genetic predisposition
According to Harvard Medical School data, especially low physical activity seriously increases the risk of insulin resistance.
Why Does Insulin Resistance Make It Difficult to Lose Weight?
The hormone insulin can increase fat storage.
When insulin is high:
- fat burning slows down,
- a constant feeling of hunger occurs,
- energy may decrease.
Therefore many people:
“I eat less but I can't lose weight”
may experience the complaint.
How to Understand Insulin Resistance?
For diagnosis usually:
- Fasting blood sugar
- Fasting insulin
- HOMA-IR test
- HbA1c
values are evaluated.
HOMA-IR value is generally used in the assessment of insulin resistance.
How to Lower Insulin Resistance?
1. Regular Walking
30-45 minutes of walking a day can improve insulin sensitivity.
2. Reducing Sugar and Processed Foods
Especially:
- white bread,
- packaged goods,
- sugary drinks
must be limited.
3. Nutrition High in Protein and Fiber
It can extend the satiety period.
4. Sleeping Pattern
Inadequate sleep can increase insulin resistance.
5. Stress Management
Increased cortisol can disrupt blood sugar balance.
For a personalized nutrition plan, Online support can be obtained through the eHealth Dietitian Platform.
What Happens If Insulin Resistance Is Not Treated?
When not controlled:
- Type 2 diabetes,
- fatty liver,
- hypertension,
- cardiovascular diseases
may increase the risk
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insulin resistance disappear completely?
It can be significantly improved with lifestyle changes.
What should people with insulin resistance not eat?
Sugary drinks, processed carbohydrates and overly packaged foods should be limited.
Does insulin resistance cause weight gain?
It may indirectly facilitate weight gain.
Does insulin resistance occur in young people?
Yes. It increases especially in young people due to sedentary lifestyle and malnutrition.
Result
Insulin resistance is one of the most common but often unrecognized metabolic problems of today. Symptoms such as constant hunger, inability to lose weight and sweet cravings can seriously affect the quality of life. It is possible to detect it early and control it with the right lifestyle changes.
For online expert opinion, You can get doctor and dietician support via eHealth Online Health Platform.
Scientific Resources
- American Diabetes Association
- Harvard Medical School – Insulin Resistance
- Cleveland Clinic – Insulin Resistance
- Mayo Clinic – Prediabetes
