how to know if i'm insulin resistant

Insulin resistance occurs when your body's cells don't respond well to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels. Here are some signs and tests to determine if you might be insulin resistant:

Common Symptoms:

• Fatigue: Feeling tired, especially after meals.
• Weight Gain: Particularly around the abdomen.
• Increased Hunger: Frequent hunger or cravings for sugary foods.
• Dark Skin Patches: Known as acanthosis nigricans, often found in skin folds.

Diagnostic Tests:

• Fasting Blood Glucose Test: Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast.
• HbA1c Test: Provides an average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.
• Insulin Level Test: Measures the amount of insulin in your blood.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Checks how your body handles sugar after consuming a glucose-rich drink.

Risk Factors:

• Obesity: Especially with excess belly fat.
• Family History: Diabetes or insulin resistance in close relatives.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Common in women with insulin resistance.

If you suspect insulin resistance, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.