Treatment
Treatment of insulin resistance primarily involves changes in diet and lifestyle. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends losing excess weight, getting regular amounts of moderate-intensity physical activity, and increasing dietary fiber to lower blood insulin levels and increase the body's sensitivity to it. Weight loss and regular exercise can:
- Decrease blood pressure levels
- Increase insulin sensitivity
- Decrease triglyceride and LDL levels
- Raise HDL levels
Patients who are identified by their doctors as having insulin resistance should work with their doctor and with other medical professionals, such as a nutritionist, to develop an individualized treatment plan and to monitor its effectiveness. Drug treatments may also be necessary to control any existing, underlying, associated conditions and diseases.
