Újszeged Medical Center

Insulin Resistance

One of the most common problems in our society, insulin resistance is primarily diagnosed in overweight women planning for pregnancy, although it can also affect slender women, men, and adolescents. The condition stems from an issue with insulin receptors, triggered by metabolic byproducts (free fatty acids, inflammatory mediators, hormones) produced during abnormal metabolism.

In the early stages of hyperinsulinemia, the elevated blood sugar levels prompt the pancreas to increase insulin production to maintain normal blood sugar levels. However, if the pancreas continues this heightened insulin production for an extended period, the insulin-producing cells become overworked and fatigued. At this point, the body can no longer maintain healthy blood sugar levels, leading to one of the prediabetes states. In the later stages, sugar absorption by cells diminishes, and the liver starts producing more sugar from proteins, fats, and other substances, resulting in a complex metabolic disorder.

Symptoms Suggestive of Insulin Resistance:

• Nervousness, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating after consuming large meals or sugary foods/drinks
• Significant sweating during sleep
• Frequent nighttime waking or sleep disturbances
• Sweating, tension, or trembling when skipping meals or delaying breakfast
• Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
• Difficulty conceiving or infertility
• Unsuccessful dieting attempts
• Weight gain despite unchanged eating habits and lifestyle
• Frequent sugar cravings
• Low blood sugar levels during physical activity
• Presence of ovarian cysts (PCO = Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

Recommended Steps if Symptoms or Risk Factors are Present:

The first step is to undergo laboratory testing.

Testing is available without waiting at our clinic in Szeged and the surrounding area on weekdays, with prior appointment scheduling, between 5:30 AM and 8:00 AM. A glucose tolerance test, part of the examination, is conducted by a diabetes nurse or diabetes educator.

If any of the above issues are identified, it is recommended to consult with one of our diabetologists. Following a thorough evaluation of general internal medicine and other metabolic abnormalities, they can determine whether lifestyle and dietary changes are sufficient or if additional treatment is necessary.

According to professional guidelines, annual glucose tolerance testing is advised in confirmed prediabetes cases. Studies show that in such cases, the likelihood of developing diabetes can be reduced by 50-60% if body weight decreases by 5-7%. Early lifestyle changes (a personalized, specific carbohydrate diet, consumption of foods with a favorable glycemic index, regular physical activity, and stress management) can help avoid medication or insulin therapy.

Dietitians can assist with dietary changes, while diabetes educators provide comprehensive support for individuals aiming to prevent diabetes.