insulin resistance

noun

: reduced sensitivity to insulin by the body's insulin-dependent processes (such as glucose uptake and lipolysis) that is typical of type 2 diabetes but often occurs in the absence of diabetes

Examples of insulin resistance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Reduces diabetes risk: Whole grains improve glucose metabolism (breaking down glucose to release energy) and insulin resistance (when the body’s cells don’t respond well to insulin, raising blood sugar levels), lowering type 2 diabetes risk. —Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 23 Jan. 2025

Skin tags have also been associated with pregnancy and certain chronic conditions, including: insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, diabetes and metabolic syndrome, adds Shastry. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 22 Jan. 2025

Physical health benefits For moderate to heavy drinkers, even a short-term detox from alcohol can improve weight, insulin resistance, and risk factors associated with cancer and cardiovascular disease (think: lower blood pressure). —Calin Van Paris, Vogue, 20 Dec. 2024

With lighter skin tones: There is a very high likelihood of insulin resistance with AN. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 23 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

insulin resistance

noun

: reduced sensitivity to insulin by the body's insulin-dependent processes (as glucose uptake, lipolysis, and inhibition of glucose production by the liver) that results in decreased activity of these processes or an increase in insulin production or both and that is typical of type 2 diabetes but often occurs in the absence of diabetes