Hyperinsulinism - PCOS care
INSULIN RESISTANCE
Insulin resistance is one of the most common issues in our society, often diagnosed in overweight women planning for pregnancy, though it can also affect lean women, men, and adolescents. It stems from a problem with insulin receptors caused by metabolic byproducts (free fatty acids, inflammatory mediators, and hormones) produced during abnormal metabolism.
In the early stages of hyperinsulinemia, elevated blood sugar triggers the pancreas to increase insulin production to maintain normal blood sugar levels. If the pancreas continues this heightened insulin production for an extended period, the insulin-producing cells eventually become exhausted. At this stage, the body can no longer maintain healthy blood sugar levels, leading to one of the prediabetes states. In later stages, glucose uptake by cells decreases, prompting the liver to produce more glucose from proteins, fats, and other substances. This results in a complex metabolic disorder.
Symptoms Suggesting Insulin Resistance
- Irritability, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating after consuming large meals or sugary foods and drinks.
- Significant sweating during sleep.
- Frequent nighttime waking or sleep disturbances.
- Sweating, tension, or trembling when skipping meals or delaying breakfast.
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods.
- Difficulty conceiving or infertility.
- Unsuccessful attempts to lose weight.
- Weight gain despite similar eating habits and lifestyle.
- Frequent cravings for sugar.