It is not the same as diabetes. Insulin resistance (R1) is part of the natural evolution of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It occurs when the pancreas, whether due to sedentary lifestyle or overweight in patients, must make large amounts of insulin to have normal blood glucose levels.

It is usually asymptomatic; however, some signs of people affected are: obesity, hypertension, polycystic ovaries, non-alcoholic fatty liver, and dark coloration of the neck, armpits and groins. It is estimated that between 15% and 20% of Peruvians may suffer from it. To obtain a diagnosis, post-load glucose insulin within an hour and two hours, or the HOMA index, which is a relationship between blood glucose and insulin, can be evaluated.

Prevention consists of acquiring a healthy lifestyle, avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, promoting a balanced diet, sugar and avoiding carbohydrate intake.

Dr. Jesus Rocca
Endocrinologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma