Which of the following statements is true regarding insulin resistance?
Select one:
a. Insulin resistance is the increased ability of target tissues, such as liver, adipose, and muscle, to respond propedy to normal (or elevated) circulating concentrations of insulin
b insulin resistance and subsequent risk for the development of type 2 diabetes is commonty observed in the elderly, and in individuals who are obese, physically inactive, or in the 3-5% of pregnant women who develop gestational diabetes
c. insulin resistance is characterized by controlled hepatic glucose production, and decreased glucose uptake by muscle and adipose tissue
d most people with obesity and insulin resistarice become diabetic
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
b. Insulin resistance and subsequent risk for the development of type 2 diabetes is commonly observed in the elderly, and in individuals who are obese, physically inactive, or in the 3-5% of pregnant women who develop gestational diabetes.
Explanation:
Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. This leads to higher circulating levels of insulin as the body attempts to compensate for the reduced effectiveness of the hormone. Insulin resistance is closely linked to the development of type 2 diabetes, but not everyone with insulin resistance will develop diabetes.
- Aging and Obesity: As individuals age, the likelihood of developing insulin resistance increases. This is often due to a combination of factors, such as increased fat mass, particularly visceral fat, and reduced muscle mass, both of which are linked to the decreased effectiveness of insulin. Obesity is one of the most significant risk factors for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
- Physical Inactivity: Physical inactivity contributes to insulin resistance, as regular exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity by increasing glucose uptake by muscles. Lack of exercise can exacerbate insulin resistance and lead to higher insulin levels in the bloodstream.
- Gestational Diabetes: Pregnant women can also develop insulin resistance, particularly in the second and third trimesters. In 3-5% of pregnancies, this leads to gestational diabetes, a form of diabetes that occurs only during pregnancy. Although gestational diabetes usually resolves after delivery, women who experience it are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Regarding the other options:
- Option a is incorrect because insulin resistance involves a reduced ability of tissues like the liver, adipose tissue, and muscle to respond to insulin, not an increased ability.
- Option c is partially correct in describing aspects of insulin resistance, but it is misleading as it simplifies the condition. Insulin resistance is characterized by impaired glucose uptake, not “controlled” hepatic glucose production.
- Option d is incorrect because not all people with obesity and insulin resistance will progress to diabetes. Lifestyle changes, such as improved diet and increased physical activity, can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.