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

One study found eating eggs for breakfast may help improve insulin resistance and blood pressure levels, although more research is necessary. —Kathi Valeii, Verywell Health, 16 Oct. 2024

Type 2 diabetes is a disease that causes high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), insulin resistance, and widespread changes to the brain. —Janelle McSwiggin, Msn, Health, 3 Oct. 2024

Rather than encouraging her patients to conform to an idealized weight or body type, Gordon focuses on things such as blood pressure, insulin resistance and lipid numbers. —Christie Aschwanden, Scientific American, 25 June 2024

Type 2 diabetes is similar, but a more extreme form of insulin resistance. —Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 24 Oct. 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