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February 9, 2010
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Insulin Resistance

Medical Author: Ruchi Mathur, MD, FRCP(C)
Medical Editors: Jay W. Marks, MD and William C. Shiel, Jr, MD, FACP, FACR
 
Viewer Comments

Featured insulin resistance patient discussions on your experience

I am a 28 year old female who is insulin resistant. It started when I was diagnosed with PCOS which infertility. I struggled with losing weight and constantly had my thyroid checked to figure out that it was in check. While being insulin resistant I've had to keep with my work out schedule of 4 to 5 times a week for over an hour each time. If I don't workout the weight creeps back on. Recently I had my blood checked to start Accutane for my acne (caused from PCOS) and this came back incredibility high for cholesterol and triglycerides. At that time it was determined again that I was insulin resistant. It's been a lifestyle change for me. I always work out, I never smoke, drink and I watch what I eat but it's not enough. What a lot of people don't understand is that being insulin resistant is very hard to control with or without medicine you are always having to watch what you put in your mouth.

"I knew for some time that I had a problem with how things were metabolizing in my body. It was my perception that no matter WHAT I did as far as exercise and diet, I either did not LOSE weight, or I gained weight. My thyroid has been "checked" endlessly to no avail. I would get woozy and extremely grumpy if I hadn't eaten in a while. I knew I had a blood sugar issue. My grandmother died from complications of diabetes. I had to get someone to listen to me. My gynecologist finally did and referred me to a bariatric doctor. He reviewed blood tests he had ordered and my history. He interviewed me and asked me questions that seemed odd, but ultimately he got the information out of me he needed. He said I was insulin resistant and had metabolic syndrome..."


Patient Discussions are not a substitute for professional medical advice, or treatment.
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Doctor to Patient

What is insulin resistance?

Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the beta cells, which are cells that are scattered throughout the pancreas. The insulin produced is released into the blood stream and travels throughout the body. Insulin is an important hormone that has many actions within the body. Most of the actions of insulin are directed at metabolism (control) of carbohydrates (sugars and starches), lipids (fats), and proteins. Insulin also is important in regulating the cells of the body including their growth.

Insulin resistance (IR) is a condition in which the cells of the body become resistant to the effects of insulin, that is, the normal response to a given amount of insulin is reduced. As a result, higher levels of insulin are needed in order for insulin to have its effects. The resistance is seen with both the body's own insulin (endogenous) and if insulin is given through injection (exogenous).

What causes insulin resistance?

There are probably several causes of insulin resistance and there is thought to be a strong genetic factor (an inherited component), Some medications also can lead to insulin resistance. In addition, insulin resistance is seen often in the following conditions:



Next: What is the relationship between insulin resistance and diabetes? »

Insulin Resistance - Describe Your Experience

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