how to know if insulin resistant

Insulin resistance is a condition where 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:

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.
• A1C Test: Provides an average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and after drinking a glucose-rich drink.
• Fasting Insulin Test: Measures insulin levels in your blood after fasting.

Risk Factors:

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

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