Understanding Insulin Resistance

I’ve chosen to talk about insulin resistance because, while many clients are familiar with conditions like diabetes, weight gain, hypothyroidism, perimenopause, and metabolic syndrome, few truly understand the role insulin resistance plays in these issues. Yet, it is a fundamental concept, essential to grasp if we are serious about preventive healthcare and optimising long-term health and function.

What Is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps transport glucose into our cells, where it’s used for energy. Insulin resistance occurs when the cells, primarily in the muscles, fat, and liver, stop responding effectively to insulin. As a result, blood sugar levels rise, and over time this can lead to weight gain, fatty liver, high cholesterol, and eventually type 2 diabetes. It also significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

Increased insulin and blood sugar levels are inflammatory and harmful to cells. They can impair cell function and contribute to symptoms like poor concentration, memory issues, disrupted sleep cycles, fatigue, stress, sugar cravings, pain, and skin or hair concerns. From a functional health perspective, insulin resistance disrupts the body’s energy pathways, damages cells, and accelerates ageing.

What Causes Insulin Resistance?

Common contributing factors include genetic predisposition, poor diet, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, poor sleep or sleep apnoea, and chronic stress. But many clients feel frustrated when they develop insulin resistance despite not fitting into any of these categories. That’s because there are many other, less obvious causes, such as mental health challenges, trauma, underactive thyroid, perimenopausal hormonal changes, nutrient deficiencies, frequent antibiotic use, chronic inflammation, and autoimmune conditions. If you’ve addressed all the well-known causes but are still struggling, it may be time to dig deeper. Holistic health assessments often reveal overlooked issues. Many clients find that with the right support, things finally start to improve. They gain renewed confidence and motivation to pursue their health goals.

The Good News

Insulin resistance is reversible. While the reversibility of type 2 diabetes is still debated, I have witnessed many people successfully manage and reverse insulin resistance—leading to improved health and quality of life for years to come. Research also shows that even people with a strong genetic predisposition can experience similar positive outcomes through lifestyle changes and, when needed, appropriate treatment. With the right guidance, insulin resistance doesn't have to define your future.