Insulin resistance
From IKE
Insulin resistance is a decrease in the glucose-lowering effect normally seen with a unit of insulin. Insulin has several actions in addition to the regulation of glucose metabolism, such as the inhibition of lipolysis and the regulation of cell growth.
The more common form of insulin resistance has been documented in 25% of the population. This form is associated with common disorders such as Type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovarian disease. There is evidence to suggest that insulin resistance may be caused by genetic causes, low birth weight, visceral adiposity, or lack of exercise.
Insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia are believed to be very early events in the development of Type 2 diabetes. Plasma insulin increases over time until the β-cells can no longer compensate for the insulin resistance. This leads to impaired glucose tolerance and eventually to diabetes. The Diabetes Prevention Study has shown that lifestyle management as well as medications (metformin) can improve insulin resistance and significantly decrease the incidence of diabetes mellitus in a high risk population.
Needless to say, the best treatment for insulin resistance is lots of exercise and weight loss (to a healthy degree). Also, other drugs can help in facilitating the use of insulin in the body, such as glitazones.
