insulin resistance
Insulin resistance is a condition where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to the hormone insulin, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. Here is how insulin resistance impact hormones:
1. Oestrogen and Insulin Resistance:
Oestrogen: This hormone affects insulin sensitivity.
Effect: As oestrogen levels drop (common during aging), insulin resistance may develop.
2. Progesterone and PCOS:
Progesterone: Low progesterone levels can contribute to PCOS.
PCOS and Insulin Resistance: PCOS often involves insulin resistance.
3. Testosterone and Insulin Resistance:
Testosterone: Although primarily a male hormone, women also have testosterone.
Role: Imbalances in testosterone levels can impact insulin sensitivity.
4. Other Hormones Affected by Insulin Resistance:
Cortisol: Chronic stress and cortisol can lead to insulin resistance.
Thyroid Hormones: Insulin resistance may influence thyroid function.
Growth Hormone: Interactions between insulin and growth hormone affect metabolism.
5. Consequences of Insulin Resistance:
PCOS: Insulin resistance is closely linked to PCOS.
Diabetes Risk: Chronic insulin resistance can progress to prediabetes and eventually Type 2 diabetes.
Obesity and Cardiovascular Disease: Insulin resistance is associated with obesity and heart-related conditions.
Insulin resistance is also associated with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which is the most common type of dementia.
1. Insulin Resistance and AD:
Correlation: Some epidemiological studies suggest that insulin resistance increases the risk for dementia and AD, even in non-diabetic populations.
Markers in AD: Accumulating evidence shows that markers of metabolic dysregulation, including insulin resistance, are present in AD brains.
Brain Insulin Sensitivity: Over the last decade, research has revealed that the brain is an insulin-sensitive organ. Insulin receptors (IR) and related insulin-like growth factor receptors (IGF1-R/IGF2-R) are expressed not only in the hypothalamus (critical for metabolic control) but also in other brain regions, including the cortex, hippocampus, and thalamus.
Insulin resistance can be managed through lifestyle changes, medication, and proper care for crucial overall health and hormonal balance.