Insulin resistance can make weight loss difficult
Small amounts of insulin are normally produced after eating which the body uses to turn glucose into energy. Insulin resistance is where the the muscles and the liver resist the action of insulin, so the body has to produce higher amounts to keep the blood glucose levels within a normal range. Insulin resistance can significantly affect lipids by increasing triglycerides and LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol, and decreasing HDL ‘good' cholesterol. Insulin resistance can also increase the risk of developing a blood clot, cause inflammatory changes, and increase blood pressure.
Insulin resistance has been associated with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, PCOS, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and fatty liver disease. Some researchers also believe there's a link between insulin resistance and some forms of cancer. The cause of insulin resistance isn’t completely understood - it's thought to be due in part to genetic factors and partly due to lifestyle. Most people with insulin resistance don't have any symptoms and the effects on the body progress over several years. When the body’s insulin production can't keep up, blood sugar increases and over time can progress to diabetes.
What we test
Insulin Resistance Index
Insulin resistance is a condition where cells fail to respond to the normal actions of insulin which is produced by the pancreas. When the body produces insulin under conditions of insulin resistance, the cells in the body are resistant to the insulin and are unable to use it as effectively. This can lead to high blood sugar and pancreatic dysfunction.
A hormone produced by the pancreas that helps to control blood glucose levels and plays a role in controlling the levels of carbohydrates and fats stored in the body.
If you have diabetes your body doesn't process glucose effectively.
The HOMA-IR score is a calculation used to assess insulin resistance. A higher score indicates a greater degree of insulin resistance, and is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Test instructions
The best time to do this test is first thing in the morning.
Fast from all food and drink (other than water) for at least 8 hours, and no more than 12 hours prior to your blood test.
Download and print your pathology form from your i-screen dashboard.
Take your form to one of our affiliated collection centres to have your sample taken.
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