For decades physicians have studied techniques for reversing insulin resistance. Reversing insulin resistance is essential because this condition can have adverse effects on a person’s health, including the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. A person is insulin resistant when their cells begin to become less responsive to insulin, an essential hormone for metabolizing food and regulating blood sugar in the body. Insulin resistance can gradually become worse and worse, but methods for reversing insulin resistance have been discovered through the years. If a person neglects to take steps for reversing insulin resistance, however, they will likely experience general weight gain (especially in the abdominal area), high blood pressure, a high triglyceride count, low levels of HDL (or “good”) cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes.
Insulin resistance, also called IR, is becoming more common in society. Experts have been unable to pinpoint exactly what causes insulin resistance. Genetics certainly plays a role, and a person’s risk for becoming insulin resistant increases with age. Lifestyle habits are also a large factor. A lack of physical exercise and activity can cause a person’s cells to become insulin resistant. Poor eating habits and obesity are also a known cause. In fact, being overweight is the first and most common sign that a person is insulin resistant, especially if a large amount of excess weight has accumulated in the stomach area. Insulin resistance almost never exists without obesity being a contributing factor. Unfortunately, insulin resistance causes a vicious cycle when it comes to weight gain because obesity can lead to insulin resistance in the cells, but insulin resistance can also make a person more prone to accumulating excess weight.Eating a protein-rich diet that is low in bad carbohydrates is one key factor for reversing insulin resistance. Also, avoiding foods with a high glycemic index is beneficial for a person struggling with insulin resistance. Incorporating natural herbs into one’s diet that have been proven to promote healthy blood glucose levels is another method that can be helpful. Cinnamon, fenugreek and bitter melon are among the foods that studies have shown to promote the reversal of insulin resistance in the cells. Other methods include acupuncture and yoga.
How will a person know if they are insulin resistant? Identifying the signs is key for reversing insulin resistance. Only a qualified healthcare provider can determine if a person has become insulin resistant. This is achieved by running specific tests that reveal the state of a person’s internal insulin use. If a person is diagnosed with IR, appropriate measures should be implemented right away to avoid the serious consequences that are associated with the condition.
