How to check for insulin resistance
Jul 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Chuanjia
Introduction
The blood insulin level is measured under fasting conditions; if the level is higher than the normal range, it may indicate the presence of insulin resistance, as the body needs to secrete more insulin to maintain stable blood glucose levels. After oral administration of a certain amount of glucose, blood glucose and insulin levels are tested at different time points. If the insulin secretion is significantly increased while the blood glucose level decreases slowly, it suggests a reduced sensitivity of the body to insulin.
Generally, insulin resistance can be evaluated through tests such as fasting insulin measurement, oral glucose tolerance test with simultaneous insulin measurement, insulin release test, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) testing, and blood lipid examination. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Fasting insulin measurement: This test measures insulin levels in the blood after fasting. Elevated insulin levels beyond the normal range may indicate insulin resistance, as the body needs to secrete more insulin to maintain stable blood glucose levels.
2. Oral glucose tolerance test with simultaneous insulin measurement: Following oral administration of a certain amount of glucose, blood glucose and insulin levels are measured at different time points. If insulin secretion significantly increases but blood glucose decreases slowly, it suggests reduced insulin sensitivity.
3. Insulin release test: By measuring insulin concentration at fasting and at various time points after eating, this test evaluates the peak insulin secretion and changes in the insulin curve. An excessively high peak or prolonged duration may indicate insulin resistance.
4. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) testing: This reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months. Elevated HbA1c, in conjunction with other tests, can help determine whether abnormal glucose regulation is due to insulin resistance.
5. Blood lipid examination: This involves measuring blood indicators such as triglycerides and cholesterol. Insulin resistance is often accompanied by elevated triglycerides and reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and such lipid abnormalities can serve as indirect indicators of insulin resistance.
If insulin resistance is suspected, it is important to visit a qualified medical institution for relevant examinations, where a physician can make a comprehensive assessment based on multiple indicators. After diagnosis, it is necessary to follow professional guidance to adjust lifestyle or receive treatment, and to undergo regular follow-up examinations to monitor health status.
