Insulin Resistance Treatments in Southlake

Condition Overview

What is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin resistance is a condition where your body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to high glucose levels. Over time, this can lead to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and dementia. It impacts every cell in your body.

The symptoms of insulin resistance can affect you both physically and mentally, which is why our team offers specialized support for pre-diabetic and insulin-resistant patients. Dr. Berutti and Melanie Martin, PA, have trained extensively in insulin resistance treatment.

How Insulin Resistance Impacts Your Health

Insulin resistance elevates cholesterol, blood pressure and inflammation markers, raising your risk for heart attack, stroke and dementia. It can affect your metabolism, leading to weight gain and increased belly fat. Insulin resistance can also contribute to PCOS, interfering with hormonal balance and causing infertility. Additionally, insulin resistance is a common cause of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which can cause liver damage and lead to cirrhosis.

At DLHC, we emphasize addressing early onset insulin resistance before complications arise.

Insulin Resistance & Diabetes Risk

Approximately 15% to 30% of patients with insulin resistance or pre-diabetes will develop Type 2 diabetes within 5 years of developing insulin resistance. The best news is that both insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes are reversible with early treatment and aggressive lifestyle changes.

Some patients with insulin resistance or pre-diabetes may require prescription medications. At DLHC, we screen proactively for insulin resistance and pre-diabetes with lab testing to prevent future illnesses from occurring. If you are concerned that you may have insulin resistance or pre-diabetes, contact us to learn more about our treatments in Southlake.

Risk Factors

Are You at Risk for Insulin Resistance?

According to the National Institute of Health, people with genetic or lifestyle risk factors are more likely to develop insulin resistance or pre-diabetes. These can include:

• A parent, brother, or sister with diabetes
• African American, Alaska Native, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander ethnicities
• A history of gestational diabetes
• A history of heart disease or stroke
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Taking medications such as glucocorticoids, some antipsychotics, and some medications for HIV
• Hormonal disorders such as Cushing’s Disease or Acromegaly
• Sleep problems, especially sleep apnea
• Chronic stress
• Obesity

The most common cause of insulin resistance is diet. Millions of people in the US follow a “Standard American Diet,” high in sugars and carbohydrates and low in exercise. With our insulin resistance providers in Southlake, you’ll learn the tools to manage insulin resistance effectively.

When to Seek a Doctor for Insulin Resistance

If you have a family history of diabetes or risk factors, it is always important to get screened yearly.

Insulin resistance occurs when your body’s hormones become imbalanced, making it harder to process insulin. High blood sugar is often the cause of this resistance.

The DLHC Process

How Insulin Resistance Treatment Works

We address the signs of insulin resistance before it develops into diabetes. Through a proactive treatment approach, we focus on your exercise routines, nutritional supplements, lifestyle choices, diet and medications.

Once you arrive for your consultation, we review your medical history, family history and current health concerns. We perform diagnostic tests, as appropriate. We will develop an individualized treatment plan to help you attain a healthier lifestyle.

Reversing Insulin Resistance

Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise plan is crucial to combat insulin resistance. Even if you have not yet reached the pre-diabetic stage, staying active helps keep your insulin operating as it should.

Weight loss is another way of reducing insulin resistance. Obesity is a major cause of insulin resistance.

Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation, often driven by factors like excess fat accumulation, can impair the body’s ability to respond to insulin, leading to insulin resistance. A primary method of reducing inflammation is by limiting inflammatory foods. Another method that may be used to reduce inflammation is by balancing cortisol in your body. Added benefits of decreasing inflammation include lowering stress levels, increased sex drive, heightened alertness, and improved energy levels.