What Is Insulin Resistance?
Insulin resistance, or impaired insulin sensitivity, takes place when the body is incapable of responding well to insulin. As a result, it builds up a tolerance to the vital hormone.
When the body develops insulin resistance, it adjusts by generating more insulin. This causes people to produce far more insulin than healthy people (hyperinsulinemia).
What Are Insulin Resistance Symptoms?
Some people may show insulin resistance symptoms such as:
- Increased hunger (polyphagia)
- High blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)
- Increased thirstiness (polydipsia)
- Increased urination (polyuria)
- Lethargy and fatigue
- Concentration difficulty and poor mental stamina (brain fog)
- Sleepiness
- High body mass index or BMI (overweight or obese)
- Dark patches on neck and armpits (acanthosis nigricans)
What Causes Insulin Resistance?
This condition is more prevalent to people with any of the following:
- Family background of diabetes
- Being overweight or obese
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- History of stroke or heart disease
- Inactivity and sedentary lifestyle
- Intake of high doses of certain medications (such as steroids)
- Metabolic syndrome
- Chronic stress
- Smoking
- Sleep problems (sleep apnea)
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