* This laboratory test requires a consultation before ordering. BOOK HERE.
 
Testing Method:
Blood draw
 
Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone responsible for moving glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the cells for energy. As a result, the body needs to produce higher amounts of insulin to keep blood sugar levels balanced.
 
Over time, this increased demand on the pancreas can lead to rising insulin and blood glucose levels. If left unmanaged, insulin resistance may progress to pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes and may increase the risk of long term health complications.
 
Insulin resistance is commonly assessed using the HOMA score (Homeostasis Model Assessment), which is calculated from fasting glucose and fasting insulin levels. Higher HOMA scores generally indicate greater levels of insulin resistance.
Insulin resistance is also a key feature of Metabolic Syndrome, a group of risk factors that may increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
 
These risk factors can include:
Increased abdominal weight gain
Elevated LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
Low HDL (“good”) cholesterol
High blood pressure
Elevated blood glucose levels
 
Several lifestyle and genetic factors may contribute to insulin resistance, including:
Family history of diabetes
Diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugar
Excess alcohol intake
Lack of regular exercise
Chronic stress
Nutritional deficiencies such as magnesium, chromium and other key nutrients
 
Common conditions associated with insulin resistance include:
Obesity
Pre-diabetes
Type 2 diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Elevated triglycerides
 
Early identification of insulin resistance can allow for targeted dietary, lifestyle and nutritional interventions aimed at improving blood sugar regulation, metabolic health and long term wellbeing.