Timely diagnosis of insulin resistance is critical, as this condition is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other serious metabolic disorders. It is a process where cells lose their sensitivity to insulin, leading to compensatory overproduction of the hormone and eventual pancreatic exhaustion.

What Can Insulin Resistance Cause?

• Impaired Energy Distribution: Instead of utilizing energy, the body shifts into "storage mode."

• Hormonal Imbalance: Elevated insulin levels disrupt the delicate balance of other hormones.

• Chronic Inflammation: Metabolic dysfunction often triggers silent, underlying inflammatory processes.

• Reversibility: It is vital to remember that when detected at an early stage, the process is fully reversible.

Why is Increased Waist Circumference a Red Flag?

An increase in waist circumference is a primary visual indicator of insulin resistance. Excess insulin promotes fat accumulation specifically around the abdominal organs. This visceral fat is not merely a cosmetic concern but an active endocrine tissue.

Indicators of fat accumulation around internal organs include:

• Abdominal Obesity: A condition where weight gain is concentrated in the abdominal area. This manifests as a disproportionate increase in waist circumference, signaling elevated visceral fat.

• Difficulty Losing Weight: Despite regular dietary restrictions and physical activity, an individual may fail to reduce abdominal volume. This happens because excess insulin inhibits fat mobilization and oxidation (burning).

• The Anabolic Effect of Insulin: Insulin is a powerful anabolic hormone. Its primary function is to stimulate nutrient storage—converting glucose into glycogen and depositing fat. Under insulin resistance, chronically high insulin levels signal the body to constantly store energy, leading to adipose tissue accumulation.

How Does Insulin Resistance Affect Eating Behavior?

Insulin resistance causes uncontrollable hunger and sugar cravings. Because cells cannot absorb glucose, they send "energy starvation" signals to the brain. This creates a vicious cycle that is nearly impossible to manage through willpower alone. Key Behavioral Signs:

• Sugar dependency;

• Lack of satiety (fullness);

• Nighttime hunger.

Fatigue and Cognitive Decline

Fatigue and impaired concentration are multifaceted and primarily linked to disrupted glucose metabolism. Causes:

1. Fluctuating Glucose Levels & Inefficient Energy Production: Unstable blood glucose—marked by sharp spikes (hyperglycemia) followed by rapid drops (hypoglycemia)—prevents brain and muscle cells from effectively utilizing glucose as their primary energy source. Consequently, despite available glucose in the blood, cells experience "energy starvation," forcing the body into energy-saving mode.

2. Brain Fog: This term describes cognitive impairment such as poor concentration, memory issues, and mental slowness. The brain is highly sensitive to glucose supply. When neurons do not receive sufficient energy, neurotransmitter balance and nerve impulse transmission are disrupted.

Characteristic Complaints:

• Postprandial (after-meal) somnolence (drowsiness);

• Chronic fatigue;

• Difficulty concentrating.

External Signs to Monitor

Insulin resistance often manifests through changes in skin texture and color before blood sugar levels significantly rise:

• Acanthosis Nigricans: Darkening and thickening of the skin in the neck, armpits, or elbows.

• Skin Tags (Papillomas): A sudden increase in small skin growths.

• Acne and Oily Skin: Particularly when appearing in adulthood.

• Edema: A tendency for the body to retain fluids (swelling).

Diagnostics and Management at Bochorishvili Clinic

At Bochorishvili Clinic, diagnostics are based on comprehensive laboratory and instrumental studies to determine the exact degree of dysfunction and create a personalized treatment plan. Our services include:

• Endocrinologist Consultation: Detailed medical history review.

• HOMA Index: Measurement of the glucose-to-insulin ratio.

• HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Test.

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT).

• Abdominal Ultrasound: Assessing fatty liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction.

• Lipid Profile: Monitoring cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

• Nutritional Correction: Personalized dietary recommendations.

Why Early Response is a Guarantee for Health

Early intervention allows you to stop the progression to diabetes and prevent vascular complications before they become irreversible. Under proper management, metabolism is restored, energy levels rise, and weight control becomes manageable.

Do not delay your visit if you experience:

• Unexplained weight gain in the abdominal area.

• Persistent hunger.

• Sharp energy drops throughout the day.

📞 For more information, please contact us: ☎️ 032 2 312 112 📱 577 22 21 12 💬 Or send us a private message.

📍 Address: 16 Al. Kazbegi Ave, Saburtalo, Tbilisi.