how to know if insulin resistant
Asked by: HealthCurious
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Community Answer
Answered by Dr. Wellness
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.