The pancreas releases the hormone insulin. The job of insulin inside the body is to lower blood sugar levels. When the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, an individual's health is in serious jeopardy. According the Mayo Clinic, the major causes of insulin resistance are excess body fat and an inactive lifestyle.
Excess Simple Sugars
Studies performed by Johns Hopkins have concluded that an excess of sugars causes insulin resistance. Insulin sets off a chain-reaction within the muscle cells, ordering them to absorb sugar. The excess sugar that is not absorbed then returns to the bloodstream. It raises blood sugar levels and increases the body's triglyceride levels.
Obesity
Insulin lowers blood sugar levels by ordering the muscles to take in glucose (sugar). The muscles use the glucose for energy and muscle recovery. When an individual eats poorly and does not exercise, fat builds in the liver and in and around the muscles. Too much fat in the body can block the muscle's absorption of glucose and protein. This blockage can cause two side effects that lead to insulin resistance.
Overeating
The first side effect of fat blocking the muscles' intake of glucose is that the muscles do not get enough nutrients. The muscles become starved and "ask" the body for glucose, which increases appetite. Because the fat is blocking the muscles' intake of glucose, individuals eat more, which adds to body fat and creates sugar cravings.
Decreased Insulin Effectiveness
The second side effect of fat blocking the muscles' intake of glucose is that the rejected glucose doesn't go to where it is supposed to go (the muscles). The glucose returns to the bloodstream and spikes blood sugar levels. The pancreas releases even more insulin to lower blood sugar levels and then the cycle begins all over again. The fat blocks intake of glucose, further increasing blood sugar levels, creating even more insulin production. The effectiveness of insulin decreases, thus, insulin resistance.
Glandular Exhaustion
Endocrine glands, such as the pancreas, can become fatigued and exhausted. A long period of obesity and insulin resistance can overwork the pancreas. The pancreas can slow or stop the release of insulin. When this occurs, the individual has developed Type 2 diabetes. While genetic factors may be a factor in developing the disease, the majority of Type 2 diabetes sufferers develop the disease from insulin resistance and glandular exhaustion.
