Insulin resistance has been singled out as the most significant contributor to type II diabetes. The unfortunate thing is that most people do not know that they actually have the condition until they develop overt diabetes. Identifying the disorder in time plays a key role in ensuring that its progress is kept in check. If you have been diagnosed with the hormone disorder, there are a number of strategies on how to reverse insulin resistance that you will find helpful.

The options that are available can be used singly or in combination. It has been shown through research that outcomes are better when several strategies are employed simultaneously. Dietary modification, engaging in regular physical exercise, reducing psychological stress and the use of nutritional supplements are all commonly used strategies. Although each of them works differently they all help in reducing inflammatory changes in the body, detoxifying the liver and reducing oxidative stress.

The general idea is to identify the kinds of foods that you need to cut on and those that you need to eat more often. The main problem in insulin resistance (and by extension, diabetes), is disordered metabolism of carbohydrates. All carbohydrates are normally broken down into glucose which is subsequently taken up by body cells. When this process is hindered, there is accumulation of sugar in the body.

Foods that produce high amounts of glucose after metabolism are said to be highly glycaemic. Most carbohydrates fall under this category. They are the foods that contribute most to the progression of diabetes. The general recommendation is that persons at risk should take more protein, fruits and vegetables. Foods with olive oil, beans, soy products and omega-3 oils are among those thought to be most helpful.

Regular physical exercise is very important as regards the handling of hormonal resistance. This is achieved through a number of mechanisms. One of the ways in which exercise is beneficial is that it helps in reducing the amount of glucose in circulation by increasing the rate of metabolism. Exercise has been shown to also contribute to fat redistribution and thus help in weight control. Taking part in activities that require large bursts of energy is more beneficial than low intensity cardio.

Psychological stress is another important cause of hormonal resistance and diabetes. The hormone cortisol is usually produced in stressful situations. Cortisol is a pro-metabolic hormone that causes an increase in the amount of circulating glucose among other things. If the levels of cortisol are elevated for long periods of time, the risk for hormonal resistance increases significantly. Engaging in relaxation exercises helps reduce this risk.

There are a number of supplements said to be helpful. Magnesium supplements are among those that have been widely studied. They are said to facilitate fat digestion and increase insulin sensitivity. Other important supplements include the vitamin B complex, calcium and chromium. The exact mechanisms involved remain largely unclear.

Pharmacotherapy options are often considered when the natural options fail. There are many different classes of drugs available for the condition all with varying degrees of successes. Commonly, drugs from different classes are combined to enhance their effect. The common denominator in all their actions is a reduction in the amount of blood glucose levels.