INSULIN RESISTANCE - AN ADAPTATION FOR WEIGHT MAINTENANCE

Insulin resistance can be physiological, but most often is associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. The reduction in insulin action seen in insulin-resistant states affects metabolic fuel partitioning in a way that would prevent additional weight gain. Despite the potential adverse effects of cardiovascular risk factors that accompany insulin resistance, reductions in insulin action may well be necessary to prevent additional weight gain in those in whom excessive food intake is coupled with inactivity.