When cells in the body stop responding normally to the hormone insulin, this metabolic state is known as insulin resistance. The pancreas' insulin is essential for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. It facilitates glucose uptake and use by cells from the blood glucose supply. In a healthy person, the hormone insulin attaches to cell surface receptors, setting off a chain reaction that allows glucose to be taken up by the cells. However, in insulin resistance, the cells lose their sensitivity to insulin's action, necessitating higher insulin levels to successfully transport glucose into the cells. This causes hyperinsulinemia, which is an abnormally high concentration of insulin in the blood. Genetics, excess body fat, lack of exercise, an unhealthy diet, hormonal disruptions, and medical diseases including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are just few of the causes of insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by persistently high blood sugar levels and by the inability of the pancreas to produce enough insulin to counteract the resistance. High blood pressure, high triglyceride levels, low HDL (good) cholesterol levels, and extra belly fat are all components of metabolic syndrome, a grouping of metabolic disorders frequently accompanied by insulin resistance. Improving insulin sensitivity and managing insulin resistance can be accomplished through dietary and lifestyle modifications, including regular physical activity, good eating, weight control, and, in certain situations, medication.
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