#insulin resistance treatment

[diabetes-health-corner]

Causes of Insulin Resistance, Symptoms and Treatment

When the cells do not respond to the insulin produced in the body, glucose from the blood cannot enter the cells and blood glucose levels rise. In this article, we take a look at the reasons for this resistance, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.

Read to know more: https://www.freedomfromdiabetes.org/blog/post/causes-of-insulin-resistance-symptoms-and-treatment/2835

[vamptastic]

its like so fucked to me that PCOS is almost always diagnosed in middle aged women bc of fertility issues unless the person in question has a very obvious and severe case or lobbies their doctor at length about it. this would not be so upsetting to me if PCOS didn't massively increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes in a way that is largely preventable! or if PCOS didn't make it damn near impossible to lose weight, meaning many people have their symptoms dismissed be it for other health problems or PCOS symptoms themselves over something they have next to no control over.

[bluejournaldiary]

Almost two weeks on metformin and birth control together and my fasting blood sugar is finally below 100 ✨ normal is 70-99, so still on the higher side but better.

Protein cereal and unsweetened almond milk for breakfast. Weigh in is tomorrow!

[sanerontheinside]

PCOS more of a bucket diagnosis for a number of presentations that indicate a tendency towards ‘metabolic disease’—which is super general but there are some common trends

higher testosterone/androgen presence correlated with insulin resistance

this also correlates with weight gain

additionally this all correlates with irregular menstrual cycles (too frequent, every 2 weeks; or on the opposite extreme, too rare—or something entirely irregular)

and yeah it also correlates with hirsutism. think triangle of dark hair running up to the belly button, darker hairs on chin and upper lip.

fun fact tho. there’s no causality here. weight gain may ‘cause’ insulin resistance or conversely insulin resistance may ‘cause’ weight gain—all we know is that something went wrong and got out of balance. so.

in the end, all this is literally just possible presentations of ‘PCOS’. you can get a person who is not overweight, is insulin resistant, has mild hirsutism (socially acceptable 🙄) and has had regular (tho heavy and painful) periods pre-covid, and they have no cysts. and they still get a diagnosis of pcos and hormone replacement and—oh yep that’s me ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Now back to the original point, re: no threshold levels of testosterone for reference.

there are certain hormonal levels that it’s not actually … possible to test. The easiest endocrine disorders are the ones where you are able to say ‘oh there’s too much/too little of x hormone’ (eg hypo/hyperthyroid).

But!

Even if you try to time it right, you can’t measure (for example) all the main hormones involved in the menstrual cycle (of which testosterone is one), and get a result that’s possible to interpret. First of all, every person’s baseline is different. Second, the entire web of hormones and their precursors is interconnected.

And at every stage you have receptors for these hormones (what if you have fewer receptors than you need? or what if some of them are broken?). It’s possible to have blockers for them too (see: anyone taking supplements)—so whatever you consume affects the amount of any hormone your body produces/uses/circulates inactive in your bloodstream

So. Tl;dr: because everybody’s body is different and everybody’s environment is different, and there are multiple ways your body can handle hormones internally, it is not actually possible to develop a useful metric for these hormone levels.

(and before you go what the fuck please remember we can’t measure physical quantities of dopamine and serotonin and see how much of those are used, either.)

I forget why, but I was on the Wikipedia page for polycystic ovarian syndrome, and I started researching hirsutism in women, and I learned the following things in this order:

there's a diagnostic criteria used to evaluate how hairy a woman is

This is important because being too hairy is a diagnostic criteria of most disorders that cause hyperandrogenism

Disorders that cause hyperandrogenism can be diagnosed by...measuring how hairy you are (this is the main and most important diagnostic criterion for PCOS)

Disorders that cause hyperandrogenism are important because they are correlated with obesity, infertility, and...being too hairy?

I think to myself, wait, what is a normal range for testosterone in women? I find this article...which set reference ranges for "normal" testosterone levels in women...EXCLUDING WOMEN WITH PCOS?

Quote: "Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another notable condition in genetic (XX) females, which is characterized by excessive ovarian production of androgens. This condition is included for comparison with DSD, as the affected females with PCOS are genetic and phenotypic females. The elevated levels of testosterone in these females can lead to hyperandrogenism, a clinical disorder characterized variably by hirsutism, acne, male-pattern balding, metabolic disturbances, impaired ovulation and infertility. PCOS is a common condition, affecting 7%-10% of premenopausal women."

So: the study claims to demonstrate a clear distinction between the normal range of hormone levels in "Healthy" men and "healthy" women...with "healthy" being defined in the study as...having hormones within the "normal" range.......................

So I researched what the clinically established "normal" range for testosterone in women is

THERE ISN'T ONE????

Quote from the above article: "Several different approaches have been used to define endocrine disorders. The statistical approach establishes the lower and the upper limits of hormone concentrations solely on the basis of the statistical distribution of hormone levels in a healthy reference population. As an illustration, hypo- and hypercalcemia have been defined on the basis of the statistical distribution of serum calcium concentrations. Using this approach, androgen deficiency could be defined as the occurrence of serum testosterone levels that are below the 97.5th percentile of testosterone levels in healthy population of young men. A second approach is to use a threshold hormone concentration below or above which there is high risk of developing adverse health outcomes. This approach has been used to define osteoporosis and hypercholesterolemia. However, we do not know with certainty the thresholds of testosterone levels which are associated with adverse health outcomes."

What the fuck?

What the fuck?

It's batshit crazy to make a diagnostic criteria for medical disorders by placing arbitrary cutoffs within 2-5% of either end of a statistical distribution. What the actual fuck?

"The results came back, you have Statistical Outlier Disease." "What treatments are available?" "Well, first, we recommend dietary change. You should probably stop eating so many spiders."

Another article which attempted to do this

Quote: "Subjects with signs of hirsutism or with a personal history of diabetes or hypertension, or a family history of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) were excluded."

"We're going to figure out the typical range of testosterone levels that occur in women! First, we're going to exclude all the women that are too hairy from the study. I am very good at science."

Anyway I got off topic but there are apparently race-specific diagnostic tools for "hirsutism." That's kinda weird on its own but when I looked more into this in relation to race I found this article that straight-up uses the term "mongoloid"

[makariosse]

From working night shifts to battling unexplained weight gain, my PCOS journey was challenging. Despite exercising and calorie counting, I struggled—until I finally discovered I had PCOS. It took time, persistence, and the right approach, but I learned how to manage my symptoms through lifestyle changes and evidence-based practices. 💪

In my PCOS Weight Loss Guide E-Book, I share everything I’ve learned from medical journals and what truly worked for me. You *CAN* reach your healthy weight too—with consistency and the right tools! 🌸

Grab my guide by clicking the link below and start your journey toward a healthier, happier you! ✨

Link:

PCOS Weight Loss Guide E-Book: A Practical Approach to Healthy Living by yelladigitalcreations - Raket.PH

[gofitnesspro]

Demystifying PCOD and PCOS: Spotting the Variances

PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are related conditions, but they have some differences: Definition: PCOD: Primarily refers to the presence of multiple cysts in the ovaries along with irregular menstrual cycles and elevated androgen levels. It may or may not present with symptoms like acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and weight gain. PCOS: Involves a…

[womenshealthjourney]

PCOS Management with Metformin: Unlocking Benefits and Effective Strategies

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone-related condition that affects numerous aspects of your health and can have implications for your menstrual cycle, fertility, and metabolism. It is often characterized by insulin resistance, where your body does not use insulin effectively, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. This insulin resistance is not only central to the onset and progression of PCOS but also poses long-term health risks. To combat these issues and manage the symptoms of PCOS, one of the most commonly prescribed medications is metformin. Visit: https://bellabeat.com/cycle-symptoms-and-diseases/managing-pcos-with-metformin/

[fatliberation]

I saw a comment on your blog that says 'the way you eat does not cause diabetes'...are you able to expand on that or provide a source I could read? I've been told by doctors that my pre-diabetes was due to weight gain because I get more hungry on my anti psychotics and I'd like to fact check what they've told me! Thank you so much!

Pre-diabetes was rejected as a diagnosis by the World Health Organization (although it is used by the US and UK) - the correct term for the condition is impaired glucose tolerance. Approximately 2% of people with "pre-diabetes" go on to develop diabetes per year. You heard that right - TWO PERCENT. Most diabetics actually skip the pre-diabetic phase.

There are currently no treatments for pre-diabetes besides intentional weight loss. (Hmm, that's convenient, right?) There has yet to be evidence that losing weight prevents progression from pre-diabetes to T2DM beyond a year. Interestingly, drug companies are trying to persuade the medical world to start treating patients earlier and earlier. They are using the term “pre-diabetes” to sell their drugs (including Wegovy, a weight-loss drug). Surgeons are using it to sell weight loss surgery. Everyone’s a winner, right? Not patients. Especially fat patients.

Check out these articles:

Prediabetes: The epidemic that never was, and shouldn’t be

The war on ‘prediabetes' could be a boon for pharma—but is it good medicine?

Also - I love what Dr. Asher Larmie @fatdoctorUK has to say about T2DM and insulin resistance, so here's one of their threads I pulled from Twitter:

1️⃣ You can't prevent insulin resistance. It's coded in your DNA. It may be impacted by your environment. Studies have shown it has nothing to do with your BMI.

2️⃣ The term "pre-diabetes" is a PR stunt. The correct term is impaired glucose tolerance (or impaired fasting glucose) which is sometimes referred to as intermittent hyperglycemia. It does not predict T2DM. It is best ignored and tested for every 3-5yrs.

3️⃣ there is no evidence that losing weight prevents diabetes. That's because you can't reverse insulin resistance. You can possibly postpone it by 2yrs? Furthermore there is evidence that those who are fat at the time of diagnosis fair much better than those who are thin.

4️⃣ Weight loss does not reverse diabetes in the VAST majority of people. Those that do reverse it are usually thinner with recent onset T2DM and a low A1c. Only a tiny minority can sustain that over 2yrs. Weight loss does not improve A1c levels beyond 2 yrs either.

5️⃣ Weight loss in T2DM does not improve macrovascular or microvascular health outcomes beyond 2 years. In fact, weight loss in diabetics is associated with increased mortality and morbidity (although it is not clear why). Weight cycling is known to impacts A1c levels.

6️⃣ Weight GAIN does NOT increase the risk of cardiovascular OR all causes mortality in diabetics. In fact, one might even go so far as to say that it's better to be fat and diabetic than to be thin and diabetic.

Dr. Larmie cites 18 peer reviewed journal articles (most from the last decade) that are included in their webinar on the subject, linked below.

[diabetes-health-corner]

10 Ways to Improve Insulin Resistance

The root cause of diabetes is insulin resistance. This basically refers to the body’s resistance to the insulin produced in its own pancreas. When this happens, the insulin in the body cannot perform its function of enabling glucose in the blood to enter the muscle cells and it thus collects in the bloodstream, leading to the most visible sign of diabetes: high blood sugar.

Here are 10 habits to help lower your insulin resistance: https://www.freedomfromdiabetes.org/blog/post/10-ways-to-improve-insulin-resistance/2788

[medsbase]

Exploring the Dangers of Diabetes and Insulin Resistance Treatments in 2023

Diabetes is one of the rising health problems of the world today. Chances are you already know how detrimental this disease could be in our life. It is the root cause of many complicated health problems such as heart diseases, glaucoma, kidney disorders, stress, and even mental breakdown. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot control blood sugar levels, resulting in two types: type-1 and type-2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes lacks insulin production, while type 2 diabetes struggles with insulin use. High blood sugar levels are the result of an imbalance of insulin, which can result from either condition.

[vamptastic]

it's kinda weird that when you look at health recommendations for various medical conditions associated with fatness it's always 'just lose 10% of your body weight to see a risk reduction' (so like 20-30 pounds for the average overweight or obese person according to the bmi) but then in day to day medicine there's not really a way of like, removing obesity as a diagnosis on your insurance paperwork for example, even if by a certain standard you've lost enough weight to reduce the risk of health conditions that insurance would be concerned about. if you're an average height weighing 300 pounds and lose 30 pounds, which seems to be the amount that's considered reasonable to lose and maintain if you want to like, reduce your cholesterol, you've gone from morbidly obese to morbidly obese.

[wellhealthhub]

A Comprehensive Exploration of Diabetes Medication for Weight Loss

Delve into this all-encompassing guide that embarks on an in-depth analysis of the multifarious diabetes medications known to facilitate weight loss. Explore the intricate connection between diabetes and weight management, embark on a journey to unravel the multifaceted role of medications, investigate the profound significance of lifestyle modifications, and gain invaluable insights into the art…

[surinderbhalla]

Breaking Down the Complex Link Between Diabetes and Heart Disease!

Breaking down the complex link between Diabetes and Heart disease. providing valuable insights

Diabetes and heart disease, two of the most prevalent and intertwined health concerns, present formidable challenges to global well-being. Extensive research has unraveled an intricate and complex relationship between diabetes and heart disease. Brace yourself as we embark on a thrilling journey into the depths of the intricate connection between diabetes and heart disease, illuminating the…

[makariosse]

PCOS Weight Loss Guide E-Book (Link Below)

I’m excited to introduce my new ebook, "PCOS Weight Loss Guide: A Practical Approach to Healthy Living." As a Physical Therapist, I’ve packed this guide with practical, easy-to-follow advice to help you manage your PCOS and live a healthier life. 💪🌸

Inside, you’ll find simple steps, a supportive plan, and motivational tips to guide you on your journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for new strategies, this guide is here to help you take control of your health. 📝✨

And the best part? It’s super affordable at just ₱500! I genuinely believe this ebook can make a difference, and I’d love for you to check it out. If you think it might help someone you know, feel free to share it with them, too. 💕📘

Thanks for your support, and here’s to your health and happiness! 🥰

Link:

PCOS Weight Loss Guide E-Book: A Practical Approach to Healthy Living by yelladigitalcreations - Raket.PH