INSULIN RESISTANCE: UNDERSTANDING YOUR METABOLIC HEALTH AND HOW TO SUPPORT IT

Could your body be struggling to use insulin effectively? Understanding insulin resistance is an important step towards better metabolic health. 

Insulin resistance is becoming an increasingly discussed health concern, particularly in relation to weight management, hormonal health, prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes. Yet many people don't realise they may have it because it can develop without obvious symptoms.

Understanding how insulin works, what happens when the body becomes less responsive to it, and how nutrition and lifestyle choices can make a difference is an important starting point.

At blom, we believe in supporting informed wellness choices through education, healthy lifestyle practices and carefully selected nutritional supplements.

What Is Insulin and Why Do We Need It?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. Its primary role is to help regulate blood glucose (blood sugar) levels.

When we eat, particularly foods containing carbohydrates, our digestive system breaks them down into glucose. This glucose enters the bloodstream, causing blood sugar levels to rise.

The pancreas responds by releasing insulin.

Think of insulin as a key that helps glucose move from the bloodstream into our cells, where it can be used for energy or stored for later use.

Another hormone, glucagon, works alongside insulin. While insulin helps lower blood glucose, glucagon signals the liver to release stored glucose when blood sugar levels fall, such as between meals.

Together, these hormones help maintain a healthy balance.

What Happens When Insulin Resistance Develops?

Insulin resistance occurs when cells in the muscles, liver and fat tissue become less responsive to insulin.

Imagine having a key that no longer opens a door as easily as it used to. The body needs to produce more insulin to achieve the same effect.

Initially, the pancreas may compensate by releasing additional insulin. This can result in higher circulating insulin levels while blood glucose remains within the normal range.

Over time, however, the pancreas may struggle to produce enough insulin to compensate. Blood glucose levels can then begin to rise, potentially progressing to prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes.

Insulin resistance is also associated with other metabolic concerns, including hormonal changes, high blood pressure and fatty liver disease.

What Are the Possible Signs and Risk Factors?

One of the challenges with insulin resistance is that it often develops without noticeable symptoms.

Possible associated signs include:

·       Increased abdominal fat.

·       Difficulty managing weight.

·       Increased hunger or cravings.

·       Fatigue or low energy.

·       Darkened skin around the neck, elbows or skin folds, known as acanthosis nigricans.

These signs are not diagnostic, and some people have no symptoms at all.

Risk factors include:

·       Family history of Type 2 diabetes.

·       Physical inactivity.

·       Excess abdominal weight.

·       Increasing age.

·       A history of gestational diabetes.

·       Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

·       Certain hormonal and medical conditions.

The only way to establish whether someone has prediabetes or diabetes is through appropriate medical assessment and blood testing.

How Can You Support Healthy Insulin Sensitivity?

Lifestyle is the foundation of metabolic health. Small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference over time.

1. Prioritise protein and fibre

Include quality protein and fibre-rich foods in your meals. These can help support fullness and a more balanced post-meal glucose response.

2. Choose carbohydrates thoughtfully

Focus on minimally processed carbohydrate sources, appropriate portions and foods that provide fibre and nutrients.  Avoid sugar.

3. Move your body regularly

Physical activity helps muscles use glucose more effectively. Walking, cycling, rebounding and resistance training can all contribute to better metabolic health.

4. Build and maintain muscle

Muscle tissue plays an important role in glucose uptake and energy metabolism. Resistance training is particularly valuable as we age.

5. Prioritise sleep

Poor sleep can affect hormones involved in appetite, energy regulation and glucose metabolism.

6. Manage chronic stress

Long-term stress can influence cortisol and other hormonal pathways involved in glucose regulation.

7. Monitor your health

Discuss appropriate blood tests with your healthcare practitioner. These may include fasting glucose, HbA1c, cholesterol and triglycerides.

 

Nutritional Support for Metabolic Health

Alongside healthy eating, physical activity and appropriate medical care, certain botanical ingredients and nutrients are being researched for their potential roles in glucose metabolism, insulin signalling, cellular energy and overall metabolic wellbeing.

Here are some of the products available through blom.

1. Insugen – Botanical Metabolic Support

Insugen combines several botanical ingredients, including Berberine, Gymnema sylvestre, Bitter melon,  Cinnamon, Banaba leaf, Pterostilbene and Alpha-lipoic acid.

These ingredients have attracted research interest for their potential roles in metabolic pathways, glucose metabolism and antioxidant support.

2. Insulin Resistance Formula – Herbal Tincture

This multi-herb formulation contains ingredients such as, Gymnema, Cinnamon, Fenugreek,  Jambul, Olive leaf, Artichoke leaf, Siberian ginseng, Nettle and Sutherlandia.

These botanicals have traditionally been used in wellness formulations and are being researched for their potential metabolic-support properties.

3. Berberine – A Plant-Derived Compound

Berberine is a naturally occurring plant alkaloid that has attracted considerable scientific interest.

Research has explored its potential interaction with AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), an important cellular energy sensor involved in metabolic regulation.

Berberine is being studied for its potential contribution to:

·       Healthy glucose metabolism.

·       Insulin sensitivity.

·       Healthy lipid metabolism.

·       Overall metabolic wellbeing.

4. OptiSorb Chromium

Chromium is an essential trace mineral involved in normal macronutrient metabolism and insulin function.

It contributes to the body's normal metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

5. Moringa and Olive Leaf

Both are plant-based ingredients containing naturally occurring bioactive compounds.

Moringa provides nutrients and antioxidant compounds, while olive leaf contains oleuropein and other polyphenols.

Both have attracted research interest for their potential roles in antioxidant protection and metabolic wellbeing.

6. Akkermansia – Supporting the Gut-Metabolic Connection

Our gut health is closely connected to many aspects of overall wellbeing.

Akkermansia muciniphila is a naturally occurring gut bacterium that lives in the intestinal mucus layer.

It is being researched for its potential role in:

·       Supporting intestinal barrier integrity.

·       Healthy gut-microbiome balance.

·       Gut-metabolic signalling, including pathways involving GLP-1.

·       Overall metabolic wellbeing.

Our Phytopure® Akkermansia Pro & Postbiotic combines pasteurised Akkermansia muciniphila with Clostridium butyricum.

7. PCOS and Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is common in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Insulin and reproductive hormones are closely connected, and metabolic health is an important consideration when managing PCOS.

blom offers two nutritional support options:

Genologix ProBalance PCOS

Contains myo-inositol, D-chiro-inositol, berberine, resveratrol, zinc and active folate (5-MTHF).

Phytoceutics PCOSupport

PCOSupport combines inositol (in a 40:1 myo-inositol to D-chiro-inositol ratio) with alpha-lipoic acid, chromium and essential vitamins and minerals to support insulin signalling, healthy glucose metabolism, hormonal balance and ovarian function. It also provides nutrients that support fertility, energy levels and overall reproductive wellbeing.

Both are options to explore as part of a broader nutritional and healthcare approach.

8. Additional Nutritional Support

Other products in our metabolic health collection include:

·       IP-6 + Inositol: Ingredients involved in cellular processes and signalling.

·       NMN: A precursor involved in NAD+ production and cellular energy metabolism.

·       Sea Moss: Provides naturally occurring minerals, including iodine, alongside nutritional support.

These products have different nutritional roles and should not be viewed as established treatments for insulin resistance or diabetes.

Supplements Taken With Diabetes Medication

Nutritional supplements may complement a healthy lifestyle, but they cannot replace prescribed diabetes medication, insulin therapy or appropriate medical care.

Some ingredients, particularly berberine and glucose-support botanical combinations, may interact with diabetes medication or contribute to additional glucose-lowering effects.

Always consult your healthcare practitioner before introducing supplements, particularly if you have diabetes, take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an existing medical condition.

The Takeaway: Support Your Metabolic Health

Insulin resistance can develop gradually, often without obvious symptoms. Understanding how insulin works and recognising the importance of metabolic health are valuable first steps.

The good news is that healthy lifestyle habits can make a meaningful contribution and even reverse Insulin Resistance.

Prioritise nutritious meals, regular movement, muscle health, restorative sleep and stress management. Be proactive about your health and discuss appropriate testing with your healthcare practitioner.

At blom, our philosophy is simple: Prevention is better than cure!

Explore our range of nutritional supplements designed to complement your wellness journey.

Disclaimer 

The information in this article is for general educational and wellness purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor replace professional medical advice or prescribed treatment. Supplement benefits vary, and scientific evidence differs between ingredients. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner regarding your individual health needs.