Initial Stages:
It all begins with the pancreas producing insulin in response to post-meal blood sugar spikes.
|
Cell Receptors: Insulin receptors on cells act as keys, allowing glucose to enter for energy.
|
Cell Signaling: The insulin-receptor interaction triggers a series of signals inside cells, facilitating glucose uptake.
|
Chronic High Blood Sugar: Overindulgence in sugary and processed foods elevates blood sugar levels consistently, even during constant snacking.
|
Cell Adaptation: Ongoing high insulin exposure leads to cell resistance, blunting insulin's effectiveness.
|
Increased Production: To compensate, the pancreas pumps out more insulin, contributing to elevated blood insulin levels.
|
Inflammation: Elevated insulin and blood sugar levels trigger low-grade inflammation, further fueling resistance.
|
Fat Accumulation: Excess calories can lead to visceral fat accumulation, tied to insulin resistance.
|
Adipokines: Fat cells release adipokines that disrupt insulin signaling, aiding resistance.
|
Genetics and Lifestyle: Genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors, like sedentary habits and stress, influence susceptibility.
|
Vicious Cycle: Insulin resistance begets more insulin production, aggravating the condition.
|
Type 2 Diabetes: Untreated insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes, characterized by chronically high blood sugar.
|