Ways 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.

Foods that produce high amounts of glucose after metabolism are said to be highly glycaemic. Most carbohydrates fall under this category. They are the foods that contribute most to the progression of diabetes. The general recommendation is that persons at risk should take more protein, fruits and vegetables. Foods with olive oil, beans, soy products and omega-3 oils are among those thought to be most helpful.

The importance of physical exercise cannot be overemphasized. During exercise, the metabolic requirements of the body increase and this helps to burn down excess glucose that is contributing to hormonal resistance. At the same time, exercise helps in redistribution of fat tissue effectively curbing excess weight which is another of the biggest risk factors. It is recommended that one takes part in small amounts of high intensity exercise rather than the low intensity cardio.

Psychological stress is another important cause of hormonal resistance and diabetes. The hormone cortisol is usually produced in stressful situations. Cortisol is a pro-metabolic hormone that causes an increase in the amount of circulating glucose among other things. If the levels of cortisol are elevated for long periods of time, the risk for hormonal resistance increases significantly. Engaging in relaxation exercises helps reduce this risk.

Supplements are said to help in some situations. Magnesium is said to increase insulin sensitivity and to facilitate the digestion of fats. All these help in reducing the amount of glucose in circulation. Other supplements that have also been in use include calcium, vitamin B complex and chromium. Many of their mechanisms of actions are not yet clear.

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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