What does high insulin mean?

Generally, high insulin levels refer to insulin concentrations in the blood exceeding the normal range, commonly caused by insulin resistance, abnormal function of pancreatic beta cells, or certain diseases leading to excessive insulin secretion. If abnormalities are detected, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

In most cases, elevated insulin levels are related to insulin resistance, commonly seen in obesity, metabolic syndrome, or the early stages of type 2 diabetes. At this stage, the body's cells become less sensitive to insulin. To maintain normal blood glucose levels, pancreatic beta cells compensate by secreting more insulin, resulting in hyperinsulinemia. Patients may not exhibit obvious symptoms or might develop acanthosis nigricans and obesity. Improving insulin resistance through weight control, dietary adjustments, and increased physical activity can help insulin levels gradually return to normal.

If elevated insulin levels are caused by diseases such as pancreatic beta-cell tumors or autoimmune disorders, abnormal proliferation of beta cells or autoantibodies affecting insulin metabolism can lead to persistent excessive insulin secretion. Patients may experience symptoms of fasting hypoglycemia, such as palpitations, tremors, sweating, and dizziness, with severe cases potentially leading to hypoglycemic coma. In such situations, prompt medical attention is necessary, and imaging examinations are required to identify the underlying cause.

Upon detecting high insulin levels, individuals should maintain a regular diet, avoid strenuous exercise on an empty stomach, and if hypoglycemic symptoms occur, immediately consume sugary foods and seek medical care.