PCOS & Insulin Resistance

Up to 30% to 40% of people with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) also have insulin resistance, a disease that raises blood sugar levels and increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes (1).

Insulin levels rise briefly after eating in typical circumstances. It causes the liver and muscles to absorb sugar from the bloodstream and convert it into energy. As a result, blood sugar levels drop, and insulin levels drop as well. On a fasting blood test, both sugar and insulin are normal when insulin sensitivity is normal.

Blood sugar levels may be normal, but insulin levels are high in people who have insulin resistance because the pancreas must produce increasing amounts of insulin in order to get its message across. Inflammation and weight gain are both caused by too much insulin. It also has the potential to cause Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. An overabundance of insulin is also a physiological cause of PCOS.

PCOS Insulin Resistance Symptoms

  • Sweets and salty meal cravings
  • Skin discoloration in the groin, armpits, or behind the neck.
  • Fatigue
  • Urination is more frequent or more intense.
  • Increased thirst or hunger
  • Hands and feet get a tingling sensation.
  • A waistline that measures more over 35 inches
  • Blood pressure levels of 130/80 or greater are considered high.
  • A fasting glucose level of more than 100 mg/dL is considered high.
  • Triglyceride levels in the fasting state are greater than 150 mg/dL.
  • Low HDL cholesterol levels (less than 50 mg/dL)
  • Tags on the skin
  • Acanthosis nigricans (black, velvety skin patches).

If a woman has these insulin resistance PCOS signs and symptoms, she may have PCOS. Blood tests will most likely be ordered by a doctor to see how effectively the body handles sugar.

The fasting glucose level and glucosuria are two of them.

Insulin Resistance and PCOS Have a Connection.

Insulin resistance is a common symptom of PCOS in both fat and thin people. It affects 70-95 percent of obese PCOS women and 30-75 percent of lean PCOS women (2).

High insulin levels are a sign of PCOS and a primary cause of the disease. Ovulation can be hampered by high insulin levels, which cause the ovaries to produce too much testosterone.

Over the previous ten years, an increased rate of PCOS has been linked to a rise in obesity and weight gain, according to one study. According to the health experts obesity-associated insulin resistance alters the function of the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland in the brain, increasing the production of androgenic hormones, which contribute to PCOS (3).

Another study described a galloping surge (of PCOS) with the increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes.

Insulin Resistance PCOS And Pregnancy

Whether or not a woman has PCOS, the older she gets, the more difficult it is to conceive. PCOS pregnancy is an option for a woman with insulin resistance who is attempting to conceive.

Insulin resistance is a major cause of infertility in women, especially in those who are overweight. Insulin resistance can typically make it possible for a woman to become pregnant, while extra reproductive treatments may be required in some cases.

PCOS Insulin Resistance Treatment

  • Dietary Changes Choose whole grain fruits with lean proteins, and healthy fats as a part of PCOS insulin resistance diet. Avoid refined carbs and sugary foods. Portion control is a key to managing insulin spike.
  • Physical Activity Stay active and try to include at least 30-45 min of exercise in your daily routine. Try brisk walking, cycling or running.
  • Weight Management Weight management is also an effective way to manage PCOS. Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and other PCOS symptoms.

Conclusion

Insulin resistance is a common symptom in people suffering from PCOS. But lifestyle changes like healthy diet, exercise and weight management can help you manage PCOS better and live a fulfilling life. Regular monitoring and a personalised treatment plan developed with a healthcare provider are essential for effective management.

FAQs

1.What are the four stages of PCOS?

  • The four stages of PCOS includes
  • Classic PCOS (Phenotype A)
  • Ovulatory PCOS (Phenotype B)
  • Non-Hyperandrogenic PCOS (Phenotype C)
  • Mild or Normoandrogenic PCOS (Phenotype D)

2. What are the symptoms of insulin resistance in PCOS?

  • Symptoms of PCOS include
  • Irregular periods
  • Weight gain
  • Infertility
  • Acne
  • Hair Loss

3. What will happen if PCOS is left untreated?

If left untreated PCOS can cause infertility, type 2 diabetes, obesity, anxiety and depression.  

Back to blog