Options On How To Reverse Insulin Resistance

By Patty Goff


Insulin resistance is perhaps the biggest risk factor of type 2 diabetes identified so far. In general the condition is asymptomatic and most people only realize that they have it when they progress to diabetes. Recognizing the condition in time provides room for timely intervention and halts the likelihood of its progression to diabetes. There are a number of tips on how to reverse insulin resistance.

The options that are available can be used singly or in combination. It has been shown through research that outcomes are better when several strategies are employed simultaneously. Dietary modification, engaging in regular physical exercise, reducing psychological stress and the use of nutritional supplements are all commonly used strategies. Although each of them works differently they all help in reducing inflammatory changes in the body, detoxifying the liver and reducing oxidative stress.

The general advice as regards dietary modification is to cut down on foods that are likely to worsen the condition and to replace them with those that will help reverse it. Carbohydrates are a very important group of foods to consider when discussing diabetes. The end product of carbohydrate metabolism is glucose and it is this molecule that is ultimately responsible for diabetes.

Cutting down on carbohydrate intake helps reduce the amount of glucose produced from metabolism and lowers the risk of progression to diabetes. Carbohydrates fall in the category of foods that are regarded as being highly glycaemic. Proteins, fruits and vegetables, on the other hand are low glycaemic. These are the foods that should take a larger proportion of the diet.

Physical exercise has a major role to play. As we exercise, the energy requirements of individual cells and the body as a whole increase. Effectively, more glucose is used up and this serves to reduce its levels in circulation. Exercise has also been shown to help in the redistribution of adipose tissue and this helps in weight control. Small amounts of intense physical exercise are better than low intensity endurance routines.

Stress reduction is another step that may be taken. Stress contributes to high levels of sugar in the blood stream by raising the levels of the catabolic enzyme, cortisol. This hormone causes increased breakdown of macromolecules to glucose and this often tends to accumulate and serves as a risk for many diseases. Excessive levels of cortisol cause central obesity and this worsens the condition. Various relaxation techniques, sports and professional counseling are all used in handling stress.

There are a number of supplements said to be helpful. Magnesium supplements are among those that have been widely studied. They are said to facilitate fat digestion and increase insulin sensitivity. Other important supplements include the vitamin B complex, calcium and chromium. The exact mechanisms involved remain largely unclear.

Pharmacotherapy options may be considered in the event that the natural options fail. There are a number of drugs that have been developed to reduce the glucose levels or to increase the sensitivity of insulin. It is common to use different classes of drugs at the same time so as to have maximal effect.




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