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HOMA-IR Insulin Resistance Index

HOMA-IR Insulin Resistance Index: role in the body

HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is an indicator that evaluates insulin resistance(decreased sensitivity of cells to insulin).

The role of insulin resistance in the body:

  • Normally , insulin helps glucose enter cells, lowering blood sugar levels.
  • With insulin resistance, cells do not respond well to insulin → the pancreas produces even more of it→ high insulin and the risk of prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

HOMA-IR norm in the blood test

The calculation is performed using the formula:
[
HOMA-IR = \frac{\text{Fasting glucose (mmol / l)} × \text{Fasting insulin (mcEd / ml)}}{22,5}
]#atfp_close_translate_span#

Reference values:

  • < 2.7 is the norm (no insulin resistance).
  • 2.7–3.0 – borderline state (risk of developing resistance).
  • > 3.0 – insulin resistance(high risk of diabetes and metabolic disorders).

Note: The standards may vary slightly depending on the laboratory.

Symptoms in excess (high HOMA-IR, insulin resistance)

  1. Signs of metabolic syndrome:
  • Obesity (especially in the abdominal area).
  • Increased blood pressure.
  • High cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
  1. Hyperinsulinemia:
  • Constant hunger, craving for sweets.
  • Fatigue after eating (especially carbohydrate).
  • Darkening of the skin (Acanthosis nigricans-black acanthosis).
  1. Risk of developing type 2 diabetes:
  • Increased fasting glucose levels.
  • Frequent urination, thirst.

Deficit (low HOMA-IR)

Low HOMA-IR (< 1.0) is rare and may indicate:

  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
  • Hyperinsulinism (rare tumors – insulinoma).
  • Hypersensitivity to insulin (for example, in athletes).

Symptoms:

  • Dizziness, weakness.
  • Shivering, sweating.
  • Hunger attacks.

Conclusions

  • HOMA-IR > 3.0 – insulin resistance (risk of diabetes, obesity).
  • HOMA-IR < 2.7 is the norm.
  • HOMA-IR < 1.0 – hypoglycemia or hypersensitivity to insulin is possible.

What to do with increased HOMA-IR?
✅ Lose weight (especially visceral fat).
Увеличить Increase physical activity.
Switch to a low-carb diet.
Контролировать Monitor glucose and insulin levels.

If you have a high HOMA-IR, you should see an endocrinologist for diabetes prevention!