Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body’s cells become resistant to the hormone insulin, resulting in increased blood sugar levels. It is commonly associated with type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
From a functional medicine perspective, insulin resistance is seen as a complex metabolic dysfunction that involves multiple systems in the body. While traditional medicine focuses on treating the symptoms of insulin resistance with medication, functional medicine aims to address the root causes of the condition and restore balance to the body as a whole.
One of the major underlying causes of insulin resistance is chronic inflammation. Inflammation is commonly triggered by poor diet, lack of exercise, chronic stress, and environmental toxins. These factors can lead to dysfunction in various systems of the body, including the endocrine system (which produces hormones like insulin), the immune system, and the digestive system.
In addition to addressing inflammation, our providers at Forum Health Akron also look at other contributing factors such as gut health, hormone imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies. For example, imbalances in gut bacteria have been linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. By optimizing gut health through diet, supplementation, and lifestyle changes, functional medicine can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Hormone imbalances, particularly in thyroid and adrenal hormones, can also play a role in insulin resistance. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and energy production while adrenal hormones control stress response. When these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to insulin resistance and other metabolic dysfunctions. At Forum Health Akron, we perform comprehensive hormone testing and create customized treatment plans to address any imbalances.
Furthermore, nutrient deficiencies can also contribute to insulin resistance. Nutrients such as magnesium, chromium, and zinc are essential for proper glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. In functional medicine, these deficiencies can be identified through advanced lab testing and corrected through targeted supplementation and dietary changes.
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