Obesity
Obesity is a lifelong chronic disease that develops from a complex interaction between a genetic predisposition and the effects of the environment. The extent of obesity, particularly in developed countries has reached epidemic proportions. Aside from the psychological distress and the social stigma that often accompanies severe obesity, being overweight has a substantial impact on the risk of ill health from high blood pressure, raised blood cholesterol, Type II Diabetes, coronary artery disease, stroke, gall bladder disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnoea and respiratory problems as well as cancers of the womb, breast, prostate and colon.
Insulin Resistance
Glucose is the body's main source of energy and to be utilised it needs to enter the body cells. The hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, provides the key to 'unlock' the cells and allow the glucose to enter. In Type 2 diabetes, the body may produce some residual, albeit inadequate, amouints of insulin. More commonly it may produce enough insulin but this doesn't work properly and it is unable to 'unlock' the cells to let the glucose enter. This is referred to as Insulin Resistance. The result is raised blood glucose levels which has many detrimental effects on the body.
Insulin resistance is thought to be caused by both fenetic factors and unhealthy lifestyles, including an excessive intake of calories and insufficient physical activity. An increase in body weight can trigger insulin resistance in individuals who are genetically prone to the condition. Insulin resistance is also linked to other conditions, such as high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol, which can lead to heart and circulation problems.
How do I control Insulin Resistance?
The initial form of treatment is weight loss which is essential if you are overweight, as is an increased frequency of moderate physical activity such as walking, swimming, cycling or dancing. Over time, depending on the control of blood glucose levels, it may become necessary to take medication such as metformin or a thiazolidinedione. This may also help to decrease the likelihood of heart disease or stroke for those with Type 2 diabetes.
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