How to manage obesity and high insulin?

Question

My sister is obese and her doctor said she had PCOD(polycystic ovarian disease), so she did some insulin resistance panel tests. She had high insulin but her glucose levels seemed fine. She also feels giddy after eating sometimes. Is it normal for high insulin to cause giddiness like that? What does insulin have to do with it, and does it mean she has Type 2 diabetes or is at risk of getting it? The doctor did not explain well, and now I wonder if her weight gain is also from insulin. Can she develop diabetes because of this?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

You need to understand that insulin resistance can be due to PCOD also and yes it leads to weight gain too and becomes like a cycle as high weight triggers PCODand other medical conditions and due to this condition weight gain happens.

We need to make lifestyle changes along with dietary changes as this kind of insulin resistance is reversible with the right treatment.

So, let us understand as your physician did not explain to you. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. Here are some key points about insulin resistance:

Causes:

1. Genetics

2. Obesity

3. Physical inactivity

4. Poor diet (high sugar, refined carbs)

5. Stress

6. Sleep apnea

7. Certain medications (steroids, certain antidepressants)

8. Hormonal imbalances (e.g., Cushing's syndrome)

Symptoms:

1. Weight gain, particularly around the midsection

2. Fatigue

3. Brain fog

4. Memory problems

5. Mood swings

6. Increased hunger and cravings for carbohydrates

7. Blood sugar swings

8. Skin issues (acne, darkened skin patches)

Risk factors:

1. Type 2 diabetes (yes she can develop as you ask)

2. Cardiovascular disease

3. Stroke

4. High blood pressure

5. High cholesterol

6. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Dietary changes to manage insulin resistance:

1. Eat whole, unprocessed foods

2. Increase fiber intake

3. Choose complex carbohydrates ( whole grains)

4. Include healthy fats (omega-3, avocado or nuts)

5. Limit sugary drinks and refined carbs

6. Drink plenty of water

I hope this helps.

Thank you.