What is the difference between insulin resistance and glucose intolerance? Insulin resistance is when the body's cells do not use insulin well. Insulin is made by the pancreas in order for cells to use the glucose in the blood. When the body does not use the insulin, the pancreas makes more to help glucose enter your cells. This leads to high insulin levels and over time can become insulin resistance. Glucose intolerance is when the body does not make enough insulin to help the cells use the glucose in the blood and blood glucose levels rise. Both can be predecessors to diabetes.
So what causes insulin resistance and glucose intolerance? Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and diet can have an effect. It is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet, avoiding heavily processed
foods high in sugar and starches. Other risk factors include waist size, weight, and cholesterol levels.
If your doctor determines that you have insulin resistance or glucose intolerance, there are ways to improve and even possibly reverse these conditions. Move more, go for walks, bike rides, or start an exercise regimen at the gym. Clean up your diet: avoid junk food, fast food, and sugar, and choose healthy fats and low-fat dairy. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a medication which helps the cells use the insulin provided by the pancreas.