Did you know you could be insulin resistant for years and not even know it? There are not any real noticeable signs that would cause you to think you’re insulin resistant. In fact, many people arise at this diagnosis through the process of elimination because something just isn’t right with their body. What is important is that being insulin resistance increases the risk for diabetes, high triglycerides, and high blood pressure.

Certain symptoms can question whether you are pre diabetic or not, which would mean your body is insulin resistant. Signs to look out for would be constant thirst, feeling tired frequently, urinating more than you normally do, tingling in the hands and/or feet, and feeling hungry again even though you just ate. A doctor would actually test you to see if you are insulin resistant by performing an AC1 test. This test measures your blood sugar over the past few months. Here is the range:

• An A1C under 5.7 percent is considered normal.
• An A1C between 5.7 and 6.4 percent is diagnostic for prediabetes.
• An A1C equal to or above 6.5 percent is diagnostic for diabetes.

Another test would be a fasted blood glucose test. A period of not eating or drinking for 8 hours is required. Here are the ranges:

• Fasting blood sugar levels under 100 milligrams/deciliter (mg/dL) are considered normal.
• Levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicate prediabetes.
• Levels equal to or greater than 126 mg/dL are diagnostic for diabetes.

Finally, there is the glucose tolerance test. Your baseline glucose level is tested and then you are retested two hours after having a sugary drink. Here are the ranges:

• A blood sugar level of less than 140 mg/dL after 2 hours is considered normal.
• A result between 140 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL is considered prediabetes.
• A blood sugar level of 200mg/dL or higher is considered diabetes.

It’s really important to be aware of foods that could increase your risk for insulin production if you are insulin resistant. These might include sugar filled and processed carbohydrates. Be sure to try to be more active too. A tip would be to eat less foods that come out of packages. Breads and fruits can also be troublesome which can even be fruits added into yogurts or again, pre-packed bars and snacks.

The role of the pancreas is to release insulin when we eat. Insulin transports energy for cellular functioning. When the pancreas cannot do it ‘s job the foods pile up and fat gets stored. The body isn’t metabolizing as it should. Next time you have a physical and feel like your body isn’t quite right, maybe testing your insulin is a good idea. It can’t hurt anything to test, but with results you can then make choices to naturally address the health issue.

Insulin Resistance and Diabetes | CDC

Insulin Resistance | ADA (diabetes.org)

Insulin and Insulin Resistance — The Ultimate Guide (healthline.com)

Megan Johnson McCullough owns a fitness studio in Oceanside CA called Every BODY’s Fit. She has an M.A. in Physical Education & Health Science, is a current candidate for her Doctorate in Health & Human Performance, and she’s an NASM Master Trainer & Instructor. She’s also a professional natural bodybuilder, fitness model, Wellness Coach, and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor.