Insulin Resistance

sugarIf you're not familiar with insulin resistance, Mayo Clinic defines it as a resistance to the hormone insulin, resulting in increased blood sugar.

The consistent intake of fast-absorbing sugars, such as those found in starchy, low nutrient density foods, and sugary drinks, results in the body demanding more insulin to do the same job over time. As insulin levels increase, insulin resistance becomes worse.

Insulin Resistance Facts

In the United States, insulin resistance is very common and widespread, primarily because of Americans' dietary habits. As such, it's easy to conclude why so many Americans are diagnosed with the condition. In addition to being common, insulin resistance is also the pre-cursor to type 2 diabetes, a devastating disease if not kept in check.

It's important to note, insulin resistance not only occurs due to poor nutrition. According to Caricilli & Saad (2013), inflammation, inactivity, and gut bacteria, which can exacerbate insulin resistance, are linked to the condition as well.

Additional factors that increase insulin resistance susceptibility, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (2018), are:

  • genetics
  • family history of type 2 diabetes
  • diagnosis of heart disease or history of stroke
  • gestational diabetes
  • and being 45 years of age or older.

Therefore, gaining a handle on the condition is critical.

Managing Insulin Resistance with Functional Medicine

Unlike traditional medicine that focuses on addressing symptoms, functional medicine places a critical eye on assessing and treating the disease's root cause. In addition to poor eating habits and risk factors that may result in insulin resistance, physiological dysfunctions contribute to the condition as well, including inflammation, nutrient deficits due to poor absorption, and hormone imbalances related to stress.

If you are concerned about insulin resistance or believe you have risk factors, call Customized Relief today to schedule a full assessment with Dr. Christopher H. Roberts. Dr. Roberts is a functional medicine doctor based in Joplin, Missouri, providing evaluation and root cause analysis for insulin resistance and potentiators of type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Roberts will also help you make the best decisions about managing your risks, as well as treating active physiological dysfunction(s). To learn more about our clinic or schedule an appointment, please contact us in person, online at www.customizedrelief.com, or by calling 417-622-0911.