Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

BEFORE USING THIS WEBSITE

THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON METABOLICDICTIONARY.COM IS INTENDED FOR GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATIONAL, AND RESEARCH USE ONLY. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR QUALIFIED MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, OR ANY FORM OF HEALTHCARE.

BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISIONS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH OR TREATMENT, CONSULT WITH A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL. DO NOT IGNORE OR DELAY SEEKING PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE BASED ON INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM METABOLICDICTIONARY.COM.

METABOLICDICTIONARY.COM MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES ABOUT THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY, OR RELIABILITY OF THE INFORMATION PROVIDED. WE ASSUME NO LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ERRORS, OMISSIONS, OR DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE OF SUCH CONTENT.

Insulin Sensitivity

Home » Glossary » Insulin Sensitivity

Insulin sensitivity refers to how effectively your body’s cells respond to the hormone insulin. Imagine insulin as a key that unlocks the door to your cells, allowing sugar (glucose) from your bloodstream to enter and be used for energy. Here’s a breakdown of the term:

Etymology and Origin:

  • Insulin: This word was coined in 1921 by Canadian scientists after discovering the hormone in the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas. It combines the Latin words “insula” (island) referring to the islets, and “linere” (to secrete).
  • Sensitivity: This comes from the Latin word “sensus” (feeling, perception) and refers to the ability to react to something.

Understanding Insulin Sensitivity:

  • When you eat carbohydrates, your body breaks them down into glucose, which enters your bloodstream.
  • The rise in blood sugar triggers the pancreas to release insulin.
  • Insulin acts like a key, binding to receptors on your cells.
  • If you’re insulin sensitive, your cells readily respond to the insulin and allow glucose to enter for energy production.
  • This keeps your blood sugar levels within a healthy range.

Example Sentences:

  • “People with good insulin sensitivity are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes.”
  • “Exercise and a healthy diet can improve your body’s insulin sensitivity.”
  • “Certain medical conditions can impair insulin sensitivity.”

Interesting Facts:

  • Insulin sensitivity can naturally decline with age.
  • Factors like obesity, physical inactivity, and certain medications can also decrease insulin sensitivity.
  • Conversely, exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and a balanced diet can enhance insulin sensitivity.

Insulin Sensitivity and Your Health:

  • When your cells become resistant to insulin’s effects (low insulin sensitivity), glucose can’t enter them effectively.
  • This leads to high blood sugar levels, a condition called hyperglycemia.
  • Over time, chronic hyperglycemia is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes and other health problems.

Maintaining good insulin sensitivity is crucial for regulating blood sugar and promoting overall health.