Insulin Resistance
What it actually is
Insulin is the hormone that tells cells to absorb glucose from the blood. With insulin resistance, cells become less responsive — so the pancreas pumps out more insulin to compensate. High circulating insulin drives fat storage (especially around the belly), inflammation, and over time, type 2 diabetes. It's also the central driver of PCOS in 70% of cases.
Why it matters for Pakistanis
South Asians develop insulin resistance at lower body weights than Western populations. A 'normal-weight' Pakistani can be insulin-resistant with central fat around the abdomen. The fix: protein-first eating, walking after meals, weight loss of 5–10%.
Related terms
Reviewed by Ghizayat's registered dietitian team. Not a substitute for medical advice.