Guide To Treating Insulin Resistance

Reduce Stress

According to multiple studies, short-term stress triggers a temporary form of insulin resistance. An example of this happening is stress as a response to a sudden, external threat. Once the stress is gone, the insulin resistance disappears as well. This situation is healthy and, experts claim, does not have long-term health consequences. Unfortunately, this does not apply to chronic stress. Chronic stress also triggers insulin resistance. In this case, however, insulin resistance does not disappear. Thus, chronic stress and insulin resistance put individuals at an extremely high risk of developing diabetes.

Individuals need to reduce stress to treat insulin resistance. Stress relief looks different for everyone. However, great places to start include mindfulness, meditation, and aromatherapy. Practicing yoga is also helpful. Other options include going for a walk in the fresh air, reading, and listening to music. Patients should develop a routine that works for them and maintain it. This will help them with their insulin resistance over time.

Consume More Fiber

Diet is a vital component of an individual's health. As mentioned, healthy diet choices are quite effective in insulin resistance treatment. Individuals who consume soluble fiber, for instance, benefit from lower cholesterol and appetite management. However, these are not the only benefits of soluble fiber. Studies, such as one including 264 women, have shown that consuming soluble fiber has a measurable positive impact on insulin resistance. Specifically, consuming more soluble fiber helps increase an individual's sensitivity to insulin. Part of this is due to the fiber feeding beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria have been linked to insulin sensitivity. Good sources of soluble fiber include oatmeal, figs, Brussel sprouts, and sweet potatoes.