Insulin resistance is one of the causes of diabetes. So today we will look closely at insulin resistance. One side effect is that you can have it for years without knowing. That's why there are tests you can take to confirm you don't have insulin resistance.
Symptoms of insulin resistance
If you have prediabetes, it's normal for your doctor to follow up regularly and check your blood sugar to see how to manage your diet., and some common diabetes symptoms are:
- Extreme thirst or hunger.
- Tingling feeling in hands and feet.
- Feeling more tired than usual.
- Frequent infections.
- A big spike in blood sugar.
People with insulin resistance often get a condition called acanthosis nigricans, which shows as dark patches usually on the back of the neck, thighs, and armpits. Some doctors think it's caused directly or indirectly by growth receptors, which are certain types of cells like keratinocytes and fibroblasts.
Tests and exams to diagnose insulin resistance
There are some tests you can take to diagnose insulin resistance:
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First test: A1C test
One way to diagnose insulin resistance and diabetes is the A1C test. It measures the average blood sugar levels over the last two to three months, like this:
1-When A1C is below 5.7%, it's a normal level.
2-When it's between 5.7% and 6.4%, it indicates prediabetes.
3-When it's 6.4% or higher, this person is diagnosed with diabetes.
Tests can be repeated regularly to track changes happening in your body.
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Second test: Blood glucose test.
This test shows your blood sugar during fasting. You should fast for at least 8 hours before the test. It's repeated after a few days to confirm results. If glucose levels are high, you might be diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes.
Test results would be like this:
1-When fasting blood sugar levels are below 100 mg/dL, it's normal.
2- When sugar levels are between 100 and 125 mg, it means prediabetes and insulin resistance.
3- When sugar levels go above 126 mg, it indicates the person has diabetes.
Glucose tolerance test
The glucose tolerance test may last two hours. First, it tests blood sugar levels. Then you drink a prepared sugary drink. After that, it tests again two hours later. Then the diagnosis is made, which can be:
- If blood sugar is 140 mg after two hours, it's normal.
- If blood sugar is from 140 mg to 180 mg, it means prediabetes.
- If sugar level is above 200 mg, it means diabetes.
Risk factors for insulin resistance
It's best to get insulin resistance tested regularly as you near 40. This test is preventive to avoid diabetes symptoms, which in younger ages look like:
- You have a sedentary lifestyle.
- Your good cholesterol (HDL) level is low, or your triglycerides are high.
- A close relative has diabetes.
- You suffer from high blood pressure.
- You had gestational diabetes.
- You had a stroke.
Preventing insulin resistance problems
If you have insulin resistance, you can manage it with some steps, which are:
- Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes for 5 days a week.
- Eat nutritious food and follow a diet plan supervised by a nutritionist. You can ask us for help with this by messaging our Facebook page.
- Try to keep a healthy fat level.
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