Insulin Resistance
What Does It Mean?
- Insulin resistance is a metabolic dysfunction in which cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels and increased insulin production by the pancreas.
- This condition is a precursor to type 2 diabetes and is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and inflammation.
- Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing root causes such as diet, lifestyle, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances to restore insulin sensitivity.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Chronic High Carbohydrate Intake: Excess refined carbohydrates and sugars can lead to persistently high insulin levels, reducing insulin receptor sensitivity.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity reduces glucose uptake by muscles, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
- Chronic Stress & Elevated Cortisol: Increased cortisol levels contribute to insulin resistance by promoting gluconeogenesis and fat storage.
- Inflammation & Gut Dysbiosis: Systemic inflammation and gut imbalances contribute to insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Deficiencies in magnesium, chromium, and omega-3 fatty acids impair insulin signaling.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Increased hunger and sugar cravings.
- Fatigue, especially after meals.
- Difficulty losing weight, especially around the abdomen.
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating.
- Skin changes such as acanthosis nigricans (darkened skin patches).
- Elevated blood sugar levels or fasting insulin.
Lab Test Findings
The following lab tests help assess insulin resistance and its underlying causes:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Arachidonic Acid : EPA Ratio | Altered | 3.7-40.7 |
| Arachidonic Acid (AA) | Altered | 8.6-15.6 µg/mL |
| AST (SGOT) : ALT (SGPT) Ratio | Altered | 0.00-1.00 |
| Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) | Altered | -0.50-0.11 |
| C-Peptide | Increased | 1.10-2.10 ng/mL |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Increased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) | Altered | 0.2-2.3 µg/mL |
| Glucose, Serum | Increased | 75.00-86.00 mg/dL |
| Glucose, Urine | Negative | Negative |
| Hemoglobin A1C | Increased | 4.60-5.30 % |
| HOMA2-%B | Increased | 70.00-120.00 |
| HOMA2-IR | Increased | 0.75-1.25 |
| Insulin | Increased | 2.00-5.00 µIU/mL |
| Ketones | Negative | Negative |
| Linoleic Acid | Altered | 18.6-29.5 µg/mL |
| LP-IR Score (NMR) | Increased | 0.00-27.00 |
| Magnesium, RBC | Decreased | 6.00-6.80 mg/dL |
| Magnesium, Serum | Decreased | 2.20-2.50 mg/dL |
| Omega-3 total | Altered | 5.4-10 µg/mL |
| Triglyceride : HDL Ratio | Increased | 0.50-1.90 |
| Triglyceride-Glucose Index (TyG) | Increased | 0.00-4.40 |
| Triglycerides, Serum | Increased | 70.00-80.00 mg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and optimizing metabolic health.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Supports immune and metabolic function | 1 scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Magnesium | Essential for glucose metabolism and insulin function | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Levo Plasmin | Aids in circulation and metabolic regulation | 1 capsule without food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glucose | Supports healthy blood sugar levels | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, three times daily |
| Vita-Trim | Assists with weight management and metabolic function | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports hormonal balance and metabolic health | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Perfect Protein | Provides essential amino acids for metabolic support | 1 scoop of powder with or without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Adopt a Low-Glycemic Diet: Focus on whole foods, fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats to stabilize blood sugar.
- Increase Physical Activity: Engage in resistance training and aerobic exercise to enhance glucose uptake.
- Manage Stress: Reduce chronic stress through mindfulness, breathwork, and relaxation techniques.
- Improve Sleep Quality: Prioritize restorative sleep to optimize insulin function and metabolic regulation.
- Reduce Inflammatory Triggers: Minimize processed foods, trans fats, and artificial sweeteners.