Why You Should Care About Your Insulin Levels — Even If You’re Not Diabetic
When you hear the word “insulin,” your mind might immediately think of diabetes. After all, insulin is often associated with people managing type 1 or type 2 diabetes. But here’s the surprising truth: everyone should be paying attention to their insulin levels, not just diabetics.
Insulin: What It Is and Why It Matters
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps your body use glucose (sugar) from carbohydrates for energy or store it for future use. It’s essential for regulating your blood sugar levels and keeping them from getting too high or too low. Sounds simple, right?
The issue arises when your body produces too much insulin. Over time, consistently elevated insulin levels—also known as hyperinsulinemia—can wreak havoc on your health, even if your blood glucose levels remain normal. This is why high insulin is often referred to as a “silent threat” because you can have it without any immediate symptoms.
The Hidden Danger: 9 Out of 10 Adults Have High Insulin Levels
A staggering 9 out of 10 U.S. adults have elevated insulin levels, even if they’re unaware of it. This is because most standard blood tests focus on glucose levels rather than insulin. So, you could be told your blood sugar is “normal” while your insulin is quietly climbing.
This matters because high insulin is the strongest predictor of future disease development. It’s not just about diabetes—it’s about your long-term health.
Diseases Linked to High Insulin Levels
If left unchecked, high insulin levels can lead to a host of serious health problems, including:
- Type 2 Diabetes: Over time, high insulin levels can lead to insulin resistance, a condition where your body’s cells stop responding to insulin properly. This eventually causes blood sugar levels to rise, leading to type 2 diabetes.
- Heart Disease: High insulin levels are linked to increased inflammation, high blood pressure, and cholesterol imbalances, all of which raise your risk of heart disease.
- Reproductive Cancers: Elevated insulin has been associated with a higher risk of certain cancers, including breast and ovarian cancer, particularly in women.
- Cognitive Decline: Studies have shown that high insulin levels can contribute to brain aging and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Why You Need to Know Your Numbers
Even if you’re feeling healthy, it’s crucial to know your insulin levels. Catching high insulin early gives you the chance to make lifestyle changes that can prevent future health issues.
The good news is that it’s never too late to take control. Monitoring your insulin and making dietary adjustments—like following a low insulin lifestyle—can help you reverse insulin resistance and improve your overall health. At Lilli Health, we offer insulin testing kits and comprehensive guidance to help you manage your insulin levels effectively.
Take Action Today
Don’t wait for a diagnosis. What are your numbers? If you don’t know, it’s time to find out. Understanding your insulin levels now could save you from serious health issues down the road.
Check your insulin levels with Lilli Health’s at-home testing kit and take the first step towards a healthier future. Your health, longevity, and quality of life depend on it.
