Insulin Resistance Syndrome

In the United States 1 in 3 to 4 adults older than 20 years of age are effected by insulin resistance syndrome. Insulin resistance syndrome is a physiological abnormality that increases the likelihood that one or more abnormalities become present. The purpose of insulin is for the entry of glucose into tissues, including skeletal muscle and adipose (fat) tissue, and to lower blood sugar in the extra cellular fluid(s). Insulin promotes the break down of glucose into carbon dioxide and water by tissues, blocks new glucose production by the liver, and it promotes storage of glucose by liver and muscles as well as fat storage.

Individuals who have insulin resistance experience an insensitivity of tissues to the effects of insulin. Insulin is present but it cannot get its message through to cells. Glucose is unable to enter into the cells and therefore, accumulates in the extra cellular fluid creating hyperglycemia. The cells in the tissues undergo a functional starvation and subsequent fat breakdown occurs. Abnormalities associated with insulin resistance/compensatory byperinsulinemia the following may occur.

• Dyslipidemia
• Endothelial dysfunction
• Procoagulant factors
• Hemodynamic changes
• Markers of inflammation
• Abnormal uric acid metabolism
• Increased testosterone secretion (ovary)
• Nonalcoholic disease
• Sleep-disordered

Individuals who have insulin resistance experience an insensitivity of the tissues to the effects of insulin. Insulin is present but it cannot get its message through to cells. Glucose is unable to enter into the cells and therefore, accumulates in the extra cellular fluid creating hyperglycemia. The cells in the tissues undergo a functional starvation and subsequent fat breakdown occurs. Abnormalities associated with insulin resistance/compensatory byperinsulinemia the following may occur.

• Type 2 diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Essential hypertension
• Polycystic ovary syndrome.

(Mayra Jannette Pliego may be reached at pliego@dusty.tamiu.edu)