Insulin resistance and infertility has long been connected. Insulin resistance is an underlying cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) which has been known to make women infertile. It is now being found that insulin resistance and infertility may be connected in other ways as well. In fact, many doctors are well aware of this. This is why weight loss is routinely suggested for infertility. It often corrects infertility as well as insulin resistance.
Insulin is the hormone which delivers blood sugar (glucose) into the cells to be converted into energy. When high levels of carbohydrates are eaten often, over time the cells become resistant to insulin, eventually shutting down the receptors. The body then reacts by creating even more insulin so that the cells may intake the sugar.
According to AcupunctureBrooklyn.com, this is where the problem lies. When there are high levels of insulin in the bloodstream, it causes blood vessels to become inflamed, leading other receptors to begin shutting down as well. The body then begins to “bandage” this inflammation with cholesterol. Eventually this reduces the circulation in the body, which influences the proper development of sex cells and fetal development. Insulin resistance and infertility are connected in this way.
Insulin Resistance and Infertility Treatment
Metformin is an oral drug that is used to treat insulin resistance. It is sometimes used in cases of infertility to improve insulin resistance, and in doing so, makes ovulation more likely to occur. Metformin is often prescribed in polycystic ovary syndrome. Some studies also show that metformin may help in reducing the risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and may even delay or prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes as well (Thelaboroflove.com, 2012).
If you are looking for more natural treatments, weight loss lowers insulin resistance and so will taking on a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in fruits and vegetables. Exercise can even reduce the damage to cell receptors. If you will begin exercising after meals, it will keep the insulin levels in your blood from rising too much as well.
Keeping your insulin levels low helps you to lose weight faster, build muscles easier, and balance your hormones naturally. Vitamins D intake as well as the DHA found in fish oil can help reduce insulin resistance and infertility problems. Magnesium, chromium, and vanadium have also been known to be helpful in treating insulin resistance. Finally, since lack asleep increases insulin resistance and infertility, getting enough sleep each night is likely to help resolve these issues (AcupunctureBrooklyn.com, 2012).
