Some Options Used To Reverse Insulin Resistance

By Mark Cooper


Insulin plays a very important role in the process of glucose metabolism. When this hormone is absent, the glucose levels will be abnormally raised leading to both acute and chronic complications. This is the case of type 1 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, the hormone is present but it cannot be utilized due to the existence of resistance. There are a number of things that can be done to reverse insulin resistance and prevent diabetes type 2.

Diet is one of the most important areas to which changes can be made. The changes should not only be focused on the types of foods eaten but on the servings as well. Multiple servings of carbs at a go have been shown to have a negative effect on the receptors. The carbohydrates are broken down to produce a spike of glucose in the blood. This is more harmful than smaller increases that result from smaller meals eaten more frequently.

The sugars that are obtained from the breakdown of carbohydrates may cause over-stimulation of the insulin receptors. In some cases, the receptors become unresponsive to any increases in the levels of blood sugars. Strive to cut down on carbohydrates so that they only make up only a third of the meals. The rest should comprise, fruits, vegetables and protein.

There are a number of supplements that have been shown to be beneficial to persons that are at risk of insulin resistance. These include, among others, those that are rich in omega-3 fats, olive oil, soy products, nuts and beans. It is believed that these groups of foods exert their effect at genetic level to improve the process of carbohydrate metabolism. Some reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and enhance detoxification by the liver.

Physical exercise is another important intervention that needs to be taken. Regular physical exercise is hugely beneficial to the person at risk of type 2 diabetes. One of the benefits is that exercise promotes the breakdown of central abdominal fat, a well-known risk factor for diabetes. The other major benefit is that exercise leads to muscle contraction and increased demand for glucose by the contractile tissues. This effectively reduces the glucose levels in blood.

Any individual at the risk of insulin resistance should ensure that they avoid situations that would give them psychological stress. In presence of stress (especially that which is longstanding), a catabolic hormone known as cortisol is released in large quantities. This hormone promotes the breakdown of large macro-molecules to produce glucose. Engaging in relaxation activities such as massage, yoga, meditation and hypnosis regularly is highly recommended.

Related to quality sleep, is the need for adequate quality sleep. Sleep is important as it resets the system. During sleep, our metabolic requirements remain at the bare minimum meaning that the glucose levels are likely to be lowest at this time. This ensure that that there is less strain to the receptors and the chemicals that are involved in the functioning of these receptors are re-synthesized at this time.

In the event that the lifestyle changes are ineffective in achieving the desired goals, drugs will usually be considered. There are many classes of drugs that are often combined to get the best results. The mechanism of actions of these drugs tend to vary but all lead to one thing: a reduction in the level of blood sugar and by extension, the risk of hormonal resistance.




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