Insulin resistance happens when the body doesn't respond to the hormone insulin as it should, making it hard for glucose to get into cells. Glucose comes from food and is the body's main source of energy. Normally, insulin helps glucose enter the cells.
Insulin resistance can raise a child's risk for type 2 diabetes and other health problems. To help improve the body's response to insulin, doctors recommend that kids and teens:
People with insulin resistance may have:
Other medical problems linked to insulin resistance and obesity include:
Insulin resistance is most common in people who are overweight and have too much belly fat. Insulin resistance is also linked to some genetic syndromes, conditions that affect hormone levels and stress levels, and some medicines.
Obesity and insulin resistance tends to run in families. Other things that put someone at risk for insulin resistance include:
Doctors might think it's insulin resistance if an overweight or obese person has acanthosis nigricans, a family history of diabetes, or heart disease. They may:
Insulin resistance and obesity tend to go hand-in-hand. So doctors might order more tests to look for other weight-related problems, like fatty liver, PCOS, and sleep apnea.
Insulin resistance is treated with positive lifestyle changes. Weight loss can lead to big improvements in blood sugar, lipids (cholesterol level), and blood pressure. Exercise (and regular physical activity) is especially helpful. In kids who are still growing, slowing the rate of weight gain or keeping a healthy weight also will help.
Families can work with their health care provider, a dietitian, or a weight management program to build healthy habits. These might include:
Sometimes, insulin resistance and other problems don't get better with lifestyle changes alone. Some kids may need medicines that increase insulin sensitivity as well as treatment for other conditions, like high blood pressure. For some teens with insulin resistance and severe obesity, doctors may recommend weight loss surgery.
Reviewed by: Chijioke Ikomi, MD
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2023
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