Differences Between Pre-Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

Many people hear the terms, "insulin resistance," and, "pre-diabetes," especially if they are overweight or have a family history of diabetes. Are these conditions related, and if so, what is the difference between them?

What Is Insulin?

• Dr. Asqual Getaneh of Everyday Health explains that insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas in response to rising blood sugar levels. Insulin acts on cell walls in such a manner as to allow them to absorb and utilize glucose from the blood.

What Is Insulin Resistance?

• According to the National Institutes of Health, insulin resistance refers to a condition in which the body produces insulin, but the cells are unable to use it properly. To compensate for the lack of effect, the pancreas produces more insulin.

What Is Pre-Diabetes?

• Pre-diabetes is a condition in which the blood sugar levels in the body are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be considered type 2 diabetes. Fasting blood glucose between 100 mg/dL and 126 mg/dL is considered pre-diabetic. Pre-diabetics are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those with normal blood sugar levels.

What Is the Difference?

• Insulin resistance is one mechanism by which pre-diabetes develops. When the amount of insulin necessary to use the available glucose exceeds the ability of the pancreas to produce it, glucose levels rise to levels that are considered to be pre-diabetic. In essence, insulin resistance causes pre-diabetes, as well as type 2 diabetes.

Can It Be Reversed?

• The National Institutes of Health notes that drugs are available, but the first treatment should always be lifestyle modification. Weight loss, making smart food choices, and getting plenty of exercise are key in the treatment and reversal of insulin resistance.