Insulin Resistance: Prevention and Reversal

Course overview

Heart disease, Alzheimers disease, cancer, diabetes, and fatty liver disease are often viewed as separate and unconnected conditions. However, one physiologic state elevated insulin levels is a common driver that underpins all of them. Each of these conditions can be exacerbated by a condition known as insulin resistance IR and the resulting state of hyperinsulinemia. Remarkably, one in three Americans including half of those age 60 and older are estimated to have IR, and an estimated four in 10 young adults have IR. The prevalence is also skyrocketing in children. Importantly, almost 85 percent are unaware that they have this silent problem, as there are often no obvious symptoms until further health problems arise. We now understand that IR affects the brain and is associated with dementia, depression, and bipolar disorder. Moreover, IR influences the regulation of food intake and is linked with obesity, fatty liver disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, and reduced life expectancy. Because of lifestyle patterns including diet, physical activity, and sleep insulin is chronically elevated, leading to insulin resistance. This course will help participants understand risk factors, warning signs, and diagnosis of IR, as well as the physiology of insulin and insulin signaling in the body and brain. Ultimately, low fasting or circadian levels of insulin should be the primary aim of healthy lifestyle guidelines. Healthier lifestyle practices and moderated levels of insulin can also reduce the severity of COVID19, a disease known to have a greater impact on people with pre existing health conditions. This course will outline strategies to prevent or even reverse IR through diet, fasting, supplements, exercise, sleep, gut microbial modulation, stress management, and medications.