10 Signs Your Body May Be Insulin Resistant to Carbs
Insulin resistance occurs when your body's cells don't respond effectively to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to elevated blood sugar and other metabolic issues. Here are the biggest signs that your body may be insulin resistant to carbohydrates:
1. Difficulty Losing Weight, Especially Around the Abdomen
Persistent weight gain or inability to lose weight, particularly around the belly, can indicate insulin resistance. High insulin levels promote fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area.
2. Increased Hunger and Cravings for Carbs
Feeling constantly hungry, especially craving sugary or starchy foods, can be a red flag. Insulin resistance can disrupt your body's ability to regulate hunger hormones like leptin.
3. Fatigue After Eating Carbs
If you feel sluggish or tired after consuming carbohydrate-rich meals, it may indicate that your body struggles to process and utilize glucose effectively.
4. Frequent Energy Crashes
Experiencing "sugar crashes" or low energy levels between meals could signal blood sugar instability caused by insulin resistance.
5. High Fasting Blood Sugar
Elevated fasting blood sugar levels (above 100 mg/dL) are a clear indicator that your body is not efficiently processing glucose.
6. Increased Waist-to-Hip Ratio
A larger waist circumference compared to your hips (greater than 0.85 for women or 0.9 for men) may indicate insulin resistance and a higher risk of metabolic syndrome.
7. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Insulin resistance can lead to higher sodium retention and blood pressure.
8. Brain Fog or Difficulty Concentrating
Difficulty focusing or feeling mentally sluggish after eating can result from unstable blood sugar levels linked to insulin resistance.
9. Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
Persistent thirst and the need to urinate frequently, particularly at night, may suggest poor glucose regulation.
10. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in Women
Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, which can contribute to irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.
If you experience multiple symptoms, you may be insulin resistant to carbs.
The good news - we can help you become insulin-responsive to carbohydrates again, and get you back on track toward your health and fitness goals.
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