what is insulin resistance? it goes far beyond diabetes and affects your overall health, cancer, weight

What is Insulin Resistance? Symptoms & the Keys to Optimal Health

When most people hear the words “insulin resistance,” they immediately think of diabetes. However, insulin resistance isn’t limited to those with a diabetes diagnosis.

From heart health and weight management to dementia and cancer, insulin resistance sits at the core of many health challenges.

Below, we’ll explore how insulin resistance affects the body, why it matters for everyone, and how adding fibrewater to your routine could make a significant difference—backed by a recent randomised control trial from the University of Roehampton.

What is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin resistance occurs when cells in your muscles, fat and liver don’t respond well to insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps glucose enter cells, where it’s used for energy.

 When cells resist insulin’s efforts, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to elevated blood glucose levels, potentially developing into type 2 diabetes. But even without a diabetes diagnosis, ongoing insulin resistance can quietly harm many aspects of your health.

Insulin Resistance: It’s Not Just About Diabetes

Heart Health

Insulin resistance has been linked to high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and inflammation, all putting extra strain on the heart. By identifying and addressing insulin resistance early, you can potentially lower your risk of heart complications in the future.

Weight Management

When your body struggles to process glucose, it often turns to storing fat. This not only makes weight loss more challenging but can lead to stubborn fat around the waist. Tackling insulin resistance can help you manage weight more effectively.  For more information on weight management and prebiotics, click here.

Dementia

Emerging research shows that consistently high blood glucose (blood sugar) levels and poor insulin function may contribute to cognitive decline. Some experts have even begun calling Alzheimer’s “type 3 diabetes” due to its potential link with insulin resistance.

This video (below) was a life-changer for me! I have shared it with everyone interested in supporting their health and well-being now and in the future.

Cancer

Chronic insulin resistance can trigger inflammation and abnormal cell growth, which increase the likelihood of certain cancers. While more studies are needed, managing insulin resistance remains a proactive step in bolstering long-term health.

Symptoms of Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance often develops gradually, making it easy to overlook until more serious issues arise. While not everyone experiences the same indicators, here are some of the most commonly reported symptoms and signs:

  1. Increased Waist Circumference
    Many people notice stubborn fat accumulating around the midsection. If you find your waist measurement creeping up, it could hint at underlying insulin resistance.

  2. Persistent Cravings
    Frequent cravings—especially for sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods—can be an early warning sign. When cells struggle to absorb glucose efficiently, the body craves quick energy boosts.

  3. Fatigue After Meals
    Feeling unusually tired or sluggish after eating, especially a meal high in carbohydrates, can point towards problems with insulin function.

  4. Difficulty Losing Weight
    If you’re adopting a healthy eating plan and staying active but still finding it tough to shift weight, insulin resistance might be one of the hidden hurdles.

  5. Skin Changes
    Some individuals experience dark patches of skin—often in body folds such as the neck, underarms or groin—known as acanthosis nigricans, which can be associated with insulin resistance. As per the Dr. Bos video (above), skin tags are another symptom.

  6. Elevated Blood Pressure
    Chronic insulin resistance can contribute to rising blood pressure levels, adding strain on the cardiovascular system.

  7. High Fasting Blood Glucose
    If you track blood glucose levels, consistently high fasting readings are a tell-tale sign that the body may not be responding to insulin as it should.

An easy way to test if you're insulin resistant

Dr. Bos (video above) suggests taking your thumb and pressing it into the shin of your leg (between your ankle and knee - the bony bit), and hold for 30 seconds. If you have an indent - this is a sure sign of being insulin resistant!

Introducing ió fibrewater: A Game-Changer for Insulin Resistance

When it comes to improving metabolic health, getting enough fibre and staying hydrated are often overlooked. fibrewater combines these elements into a convenient drink that supports healthy blood glucose levels and overall well-being.

Backed by Research

In a recent randomised control trial conducted by the University of Roehampton, participants who incorporated fibrewater into their daily routines saw significant improvements in:

  • Blood Glucose Levels: Lower spikes and more stable readings
  • Weight and BMI: Noticeable reductions, aiding in healthier weight management
  • Sleep and Mood: Better rest and a marked improvement in daily mood

These findings suggest that fibrewater has a multi-faceted impact on both physical and mental health, making it a valuable addition to your lifestyle.

(The results for this study are so new, we are currently awaiting them to be published! However, you can see the study listed on the National Library of Medicine/National Institute of Health website here).

How ió fibrewater works

fibrewater delivers soluble, gut-loving prebiotic fibre (not probiotic!), making it easy to integrate into your day. Fibre helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, stabilising insulin response. Prebiotic fibre takes dietary fibre to the next level with a wide range of health benefits and thousands of studies.

The particular prebiotic fibres we use in - which are made with a proprietary recipe using a combination of chicory root fibre and resistant starch - offer even more health benefits!

This can lead to improved energy levels, reduced cravings and better weight control. And, as demonstrated in the trial, these benefits extend beyond mere glucose management to positively influence sleep patterns and emotional balance.

Find out more:

Prebiotics vs Probiotics

Prebiotics & Immune System Function

Your 20% Discount Code: ‘GLUCOSE20’

Ready to take a proactive step towards managing insulin resistance and supporting overall health? Simply visit the fibrewater website and use the code 'GLUCOSE20' at checkout to enjoy 20% off your first order.

This is your opportunity to embrace a convenient, research-backed solution that may help you tackle insulin resistance head-on.

Final Thoughts

Insulin resistance is a hidden factor that can dramatically influence everything from heart health and weight to cognition and cancer risk. Addressing it is crucial—even if you’re not living with diabetes. Thanks to exciting research from the University of Roehampton, we now have an innovative tool in the fight against insulin resistance: fibrewater.

Our unique product offers an easy, delicious way to give your body the support it deserves by helping to balance your blood glucose levels, supporting healthy weight, and enhancing sleep and mood.

Take charge of your health today—start managing insulin resistance with fibrewater and enjoy 20% off with the code glucose20. It might just be the missing piece of the puzzle you’ve been searching for!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you suspect insulin resistance or are experiencing any concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.
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