This post is a throwback. One of my first articles which has been buried. It's such an important topic I am republishing it. Enjoy.
When you think of the phrase “insulin resistance,” most people rightly associate it with diabetes. For many people that is where the understanding ends. Insulin resistance is poorly understood by many people who suffer from diabetes. In this article I will explain what insulin resistance is and why it is important.
First we must go over the basics.
When you eat food your body immediately begins the process of breaking it down. When you put food in your mouth the amylase in saliva begins breaking starches down. Food passes into the stomach and intestines where it is processed and the molecules are passed into the bloodstream. The main molecule of concern is glucose and its siblings.
Galactose, fructose, dextrose, maltose etc. all break down to glucose in the body. This glucose is used for quick energy in the body and the extra is stored.
Glucose cannot enter the cells of the body without a key. That key is insulin. When you eat a meal the body also releases insulin. The amount of insulin released depends on the degree of blood sugar elevation sensed by the body. If you eat a bag of candy your body will require a lot of insulin. If you eat steak, less will be required.
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