Insulin resistance affects an estimated 88% of American adults, yet most doctors only test fasting glucose. By the time glucose levels rise, you've already had insulin resistance for years or even decades.
The Hidden Epidemic
Insulin resistance is the root cause of most chronic diseases affecting people over 50:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Alzheimer's disease
- Fatty liver disease
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Many cancers
Why Standard Testing Fails
Fasting glucose is the last thing to rise. Your body can maintain normal glucose levels for years while insulin levels skyrocket. This is why we need better testing.
Tests Your Doctor Should Order
- Fasting Insulin: Should be under 5 μU/mL
- HOMA-IR: Measures insulin resistance directly
- Hemoglobin A1C: Shows average glucose over 3 months
- Triglyceride/HDL ratio: Above 2.0 indicates insulin resistance
- Continuous Glucose Monitor: Shows glucose spikes after meals
The Metabolic Syndrome Connection
Insulin resistance drives metabolic syndrome, characterized by:
- Abdominal obesity
- High triglycerides
- Low HDL cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Elevated fasting glucose
Reversing Insulin Resistance
The good news? Insulin resistance is completely reversible with the right approach:
1. Dietary Changes
- Reduce refined carbohydrates and sugar
- Increase healthy fats and protein
- Consider time-restricted eating
- Focus on whole, unprocessed foods
2. Exercise
- Resistance training builds muscle, which improves insulin sensitivity
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Regular walking after meals
3. Sleep and Stress Management
- Poor sleep directly causes insulin resistance
- Chronic stress elevates cortisol, worsening insulin resistance
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep
Take Action
Don't wait for a diabetes diagnosis. If you're over 50, ask your doctor to test your fasting insulin and HOMA-IR. Early detection and intervention can prevent decades of chronic disease.