Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells-especially in muscles, fat, and the liver-do not respond properly to insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. Normally, insulin helps glucose (sugar) enter cells to be used for energy or stored for later use. In insulin resistance, these cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, causing glucose to build up in the bloodstream
. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to try to overcome this resistance and keep blood sugar levels in check, leading to high insulin levels in the blood (hyperinsulinemia). However, if the resistance worsens, blood sugar levels rise (hyperglycemia), which can progress to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
. Insulin resistance is influenced by genetic and lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. It is often associated with metabolic syndrome and can lead to other health issues like hypertension and fatty liver disease. Importantly, insulin resistance can be improved or even reversed through lifestyle changes including increased physical activity, weight loss, and a balanced diet
. In summary, insulin resistance is a pathological state where the body's cells fail to respond normally to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar and increased risk for diabetes and related metabolic disorders
