Defining Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is the condition in which normal amounts of insulin are inadequate to produce a normal insulin response from fat, muscle and liver cells.

Insulin resistance in fat cells reduces the effects of insulin and results in elevated hydrolysis of stored triglycerides in the absence of measures which either increase insulin sensitivity or which provide additional insulin.

Increased mobilization of stored lipids in these cells elevates free fatty acids in the blood plasma.

Insulin resistance in muscle cells reduces glucose uptake (and so local storage of glucose as (glycogen), whereas insulin resistance in liver cells reduces storage of glycogen, making it unavailable for release into the blood when blood insulin levels fall (normally only when blood glucose levels are at low storage: Both cause elevated blood glucose levels.

High plasma levels of insulin and glucose due to insulin resistance often lead to metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, including its complications.