Hyperinsulinemia

A large abdomen is a strong indicator of Hyperinsulinemia, so measure waist to hip ratio. But the best way to know if you have hyperinsulinemia is to get insulin levels checked. It is important to note that in some people Insulin can be elevated in the presence of normal glucose for 10-20 years, so it is best not to rely on glucose levels without also measuring insulin

Some patients may experience a variety of symptoms when hypoglycemia is present, including:[8]

• Temporary muscle weakness
• Brain fog
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Temporary thought disorder, or inability to concentrate
• Visual problems, such as blurred vision or double vision
• Headaches
• Shaking/Trembling
• Thirst

If a person experiences any of these symptoms, a visit to a qualified medical practitioner is advised, and diagnostic blood testing, such as Fasting Insulin Levels, may be required.

Possible causes include:

• Atherosclerosis[9]
• Hyperglycemia from consumption of excess sugars (includes juices, sauces, alcohol) & processed Carbohydrates.
• Neoplasm
• Overeating
• Inactivity & lack of muscle strength. See Physical inactivity and Physical activity.
• Pancreatic cancer
• Trans fats [10]

Fasting Insulin levels in blood may be measured as this can be elevated in the presence of normal glucose. Diagnosis is often made by checking normal levels of glucose that exceed 1.7 mmol/L (30 mg/dL) when 1 mg of glucagon is administered IM or IV.[16] In addition, urine samples or blood samples are also used to check levels of ketones and low free fatty acids.[17]

After diagnosis, most people are required to continue regular check ups for evaluations.[17]

Treatment is typically achieved via diet and exercise, although metformin may be used to reduce insulin levels in some patients (typically where obesity is present). A referral to a dietician is beneficial. Another method used to lower excessively high insulin levels is cinnamon, specifically Ceylon cinnamon,[19] as was demonstrated when supplemented in clinical human trials.[20]

A healthy diet that is low in simple sugars and processed carbohydrates, and high in fiber, and vegetable protein is often recommended. This includes replacing white bread with whole-grain bread, reducing intake of foods composed primarily of starch such as potatoes, and increasing intake of legumes and green vegetables, particularly soy.[21]

Regular monitoring of weight, blood sugar, and insulin are advised, as hyperinsulinemia may develop into diabetes mellitus type 2.[22]

It has been shown in many studies that physical exercise improves insulin sensitivity.[23] The mechanism of exercise on improving insulin sensitivity is not well understood however it is thought that exercise causes the glucose receptor GLUT4 to translocate to the membrane.[24] As more GLUT4 receptors are present on the membrane more glucose is taken up into cells decreasing blood glucose levels which then causes decreased insulin secretion and some alleviation of hyperinsulinemia.[23] Another proposed mechanism of improved insulin sensitivity by exercise is through AMPK activity.[23] The beneficial effect of exercise on hyperinsulinemia was shown in a study in 2009, where they found that improving fitness through exercise significantly decreases blood insulin concentrations.[23] Moreover, a diet that consists of high amounts of carbs have been linked to weight gain and obesity in rodents. Although this has not been tested in humans, it is assumed that it could aid with the prevention of weight gain in humans, and possibly obesity.[25] Medications have also been studied to treat hyperinsulinemia, although these might have some side effects, these could be used as an alternative.[26]

• Metabolic syndrome (Syndrome X)
• Acanthosis nigricans

• ped/1075 at eMedicine