This week I wanted to feature a short video just produced by Stanford on insulin resistance. This the body’s inability to respond to insulin to keep blood sugar in check. Unfortunately this condition is increasingly common, affecting more than 32% of Americans.
What Causes Insulin Resistance?
Insulin resistance is associated with ingesting too many calories, sedentary lifestyles, and carrying too much weight. However, people at a normal weight can also develop this condition, especially if they consume high amounts of sugar and simple carbohydrates like those in baked goods, packaged snack foods, and sugary drinks. These include the sugar-laden coffee drinks that are so popular today.
What Are the Consequences?
Insulin resistance is associated with a host of disorders including diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, certain types of cancer, and even Alzheimer’s disease. It can also lead to unwanted weight gain and can make it more difficult to lose weight. This is because insulin plays a key role in the way fat cells release fat into the blood stream.
Learn More about Insulin Resistance and How to Avoid It
This short video featuring nutrition scientist Dr. Christopher Gardner provides the best explanation of insulin resistance that I have seen. Trust me—it’s a great investment of five minutes!