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Insulin Resistance

A state in which body cells do not respond adequately to insulin.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin resistance arises when muscle, liver, and fat tissue fail to respond adequately to insulin signaling that mediates glucose uptake. In response, the pancreas produces more insulin; over time, beta cells are exhausted and blood sugar begins to rise.

Insulin resistance is less a disease itself than a common denominator behind many chronic conditions (type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, PCOS, fatty liver, hypertension). It progresses silently and is detected on routine blood tests (fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, oral glucose tolerance test).

Treatment centers on lifestyle change: weight loss, exercise, and restriction of refined carbohydrates. These measures can substantially improve insulin sensitivity.

Symptoms

Usually no symptoms (silent metabolic condition)
Post-meal sleepiness and low energy
Increased cravings for sugar and carbohydrates
Tendency to gain weight, especially abdominally
Dark skin (acanthosis nigricans) on the neck, armpits, and groin
Menstrual irregularity (in women, with PCOS)
Frequent hunger

Risk Factors

Abdominal obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
Diet heavy in refined carbohydrates and sugar
Family history of type 2 diabetes
Sleep deprivation and sleep apnea
Chronic stress and high cortisol
Polycystic ovary syndrome

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Fasting blood sugar above 100 mg/dL
  • Elevated HOMA-IR reported on testing
  • Acanthosis nigricans is detected
  • For routine screening in individuals with a family history of diabetes
  • On diagnosis of obesity, PCOS, or metabolic syndrome

Treatment Methods

01
Weight loss: reducing abdominal fat rapidly improves insulin sensitivity
02
Regular aerobic and resistance exercise (muscle mass increases insulin sensitivity)
03
Low-glycemic-index, fiber-rich diet
04
Reducing refined carbohydrates, sugar, and processed foods
05
Metformin (recommended in prediabetes and PCOS)
06
Improving sleep quality and stress management

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.