Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes. The presence of diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Diabetes is also the leading cause of blindness, kidney disease and amputations. Insulin resistance and low glucose tolerance are often the cause of high blood glucose and a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
Insulin
The pancreas secretes the hormone called insulin; its primary role is to signal tissues and cells to utilize glucose from the bloodstream as energy. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas is unable to produce sufficient amounts of insulin.
Diabetes Type 2
Type 2 diabetics may have normal insulin production from the pancreas. Unfortunately, type 2 diabetics have tissues and cells that do not respond to the insulin produced. Metabolic disorders, weight gain and genetics can all be a factor in lower insulin sensitivity. As a result, dietary glucose recently absorbed from the digestive tract remains in the bloodstream.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
Individuals suspected of having impaired glucose tolerance may be asked to take an oral glucose tolerance test. The test consists of a blood draw 2 hours after the ingestion of 75g of glucose. The purpose of the test is to determine if high levels of glucose are found in the bloodstream following glucose intake.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Results
After 2 hours, blood glucose levels between less than 140 mg/dL are normal. Levels between 140 and 200 mg/dL are considered impaired blood glucose and may indicate pre-diabetes. Levels greater than 200 mg/dL on more than one occasion may indicate the presence of diabetes. A separate oral glucose tolerance test is administered for pregnant women to identify gestational diabetes.
Treatment for Insulin Resistance
Treatment of insulin resistance in type 2 diabetics often includes the use of prescription oral medications. Medications in the class of drugs known as biguanides and sulfonylureas both work by increasing the sensitivity of cells to insulin. Unfortunately, insulin resistance can trigger the pancreas to secrete more insulin. Eventually, increased insulin production can cause the pancreas to burn out, requiring type 2 diabetics to start insulin therapy.
