By: Sheila Kun RN, BSN, MS, CPN, FCCP
Salesian Cooperator

Abstracted by Sheila Kun RN from Renewed Vitality

Many things contribute to Insulin Resistance. One of the biggest causes is increased amounts of fatty acids (also called triglycerides) in the bloodstream. Triglycerides are a form of cholesterol. Several studies have shown that these fats impede insulin from getting into the cells. The biggest reason for elevated triglycerides is eating the wrong types of foods. Genetics can cause a predisposition to abnormal cholesterol, but it is mainly affected by diet choices.

Belly fat also releases higher levels of triglycerides into the bloodstream. This increases the production of inflammatory hormones which also causes Insulin Resistance.

Not everyone who has Insulin Resistance is overweight. What makes a person more likely to be afflicted is where they carry their weight. If it’s around the abdominal area, chances are that they will be Insulin Resistant.  

Other causes of Insulin Resistance include:

• Obesity
• Eating a diet high in sugar and processed foods
• Physical Inactivity
• Inflammation
• Imbalances in the gut microbiome
• Poor sleep habits
• Sleep apnea
• Genetics

While you can’t change your genetic disposition, you do have the ability to make yourself healthier by the foods that you eat and by the lifestyle that you choose.

Your homework from the Care Ministry this week: verbalize at least two causes of insulin resistance.

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