Information On How To Reverse Insulin Resistance

By Janell Bowers


Insulin is a hormone that facilitates entry of glucose into the body tissues so that it can be used to provide energy. Resistance to this hormone is a situation where the body is unable to utilize it. This leads to a syndrome known as the metabolic syndrome and characterized by high blood sugar levels, elevated levels of lipids and abdominal obesity. Diabetic patients need information on how to reverse insulin resistance as early as possible before the condition becomes severe.

Several conditions have been documented as being major contributors to metabolic syndrome. Physical inactivity and obesity are perhaps the most well-known. At cellular level, the main problem is elevated blood sugar which overwhelms the absorptive mechanisms. The hormone receptors in particular are overused and as a result, they begin to shut down and even malfunction. The sugar remains high as it is not being absorbed. The end result is a cyclic destructive process.

Having strict control over dietary habits has been found to be one of the most effective ways of reversing the symptoms. Slow carbohydrates are recommended to individuals who are predisposed to developing the syndrome. Since the carbohydrates lead to a more gradual blood sugar increase, the insulin response is similarly gradual. With time, there is chance that it will revert back to normal. Vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and other foods with high fiber content have been highly advocated for.

Omega-3 fatty acids are another option that can be used. These fats are essential in the building of healthy cellular walls. In presence of adequate amounts of these fats, resistant cells that reach end of their cycle are replaced by healthier, non-resistant cells. Sources include krill oil, flaxseed oil, wild mackerel and salmon.

There are a number of micronutrients that are believed to be involved in the progression of the syndrome. The element magnesium is one of them. Magnesium is very important in the process of fat breakdown. It has been established to have the ability to reverse the metabolic syndrome but the exact way through which this happens is still unclear. Vitamin D and chromium are equally important.

Since obesity is a major risk factor for developing metabolic syndrome, weight control is one way in which this disorder can be avoided. Sodium level in blood is directly proportional to body water and by extension, body weight. Reducing sodium intake to 500-1500 mg per day will greatly help reduce this excessive weight.

There is a big role for exercise. One of the functions of physical exercise is to control the excessive weight gain. Another function is to enhance insulin uptake by contracting muscle fibers. Regular physical exercise has been associated with creation of more glycolytic receptors. It is recommended that one takes part in intense physical activity 30 minutes a day, at least 3 days in a week.

Medications can be used include biguanides such as metformin, thiazolidinedione drugs, alpha glucosidase inhibitors such as acarbose and miglitol. These drugs increase uptake of glucose into tissues and at the same time increase hormone sensitivity. It is common practice to combine drugs from these classes. If all the measures have failed, then treatment with insulin can be instituted as a last resort. To get more advice on how to reverse insulin resistance patients need to consult their diabetic specialists.




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