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

Sugar addiction may increase the risk of weight gain, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, inflammation, heart disease, tooth decay, and depression. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 21 Sep. 2024

In addition to slower metabolism and weight gain, the inflammatory response of producing cytokines can contribute to insulin resistance. —Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 5 July 2024

Interestingly, however, both low and high levels of selenium may increase the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. —Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 15 Aug. 2024

Type 2 diabetes is an extreme form of insulin resistance, the result of excess body fat and inflammation. —Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 5 July 2024

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