Why is it harder to lose weight after 40?
As you age, your metabolism slows down, and hormonal changes in midlife can lead to insulin resistance and weight gain, making it harder to lose weight through traditional methods.

 

What is insulin resistance?

Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. As a result, your body needs to produce more insulin to keep blood sugar in check. Over time, this can lead to elevated blood sugar, prediabetes and eventually type 2 diabetes if left unmanaged.

 

What causes insulin resistance?

Several factors contribute to insulin resistance, including:

• Being overweight or obese, especially with excess abdominal fat.

• Lack of physical activity.

• Poor diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars.

• Chronic stress.

• Sleep disturbances, like sleep apnoea.

• Hormonal imbalances, such as those seen in PCOS.

• Genetics can also play a role.

 

What are the symptoms of insulin resistance?

Insulin resistance itself may not cause noticeable symptoms, but some signs to watch for include:

• Increased hunger, especially cravings for sugary foods.

• Difficulty losing weight or weight gain, particularly around the belly.

• Fatigue or low energy levels.

• Acanthosis nigricans (dark, velvety patches of skin in areas like the neck or underarms).

• Elevated blood pressure or cholesterol levels.

• Symptoms of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes (e.g. frequent urination, blurred vision).

 

How is insulin resistance diagnosed?

Insulin resistance is typically diagnosed through blood tests that measure:

• Fasting blood sugar.

• HbA1c (a long-term indicator of blood sugar levels).

• Fasting insulin levels.

• Glucose tolerance test (in some cases).

Your healthcare provider may also evaluate other markers like triglycerides and cholesterol, which can be affected by insulin resistance.

 

Can insulin resistance be reversed?

Yes, insulin resistance and prediabetes can often be improved or reversed with lifestyle changes. These include:

• Dietary changes: Adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fibre while avoiding refined sugars and processed foods.

• Physical activity: Regular exercise, particularly strength training and cardio, can improve insulin sensitivity.

• Weight loss: Losing excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can significantly reduce insulin resistance.

• Stress management: Reducing stress through mindfulness, yoga, or other relaxation techniques can help improve insulin sensitivity.

• Sleep: Getting adequate, quality sleep is important for managing insulin levels.

 

What are the risks of untreated insulin resistance?

If left unmanaged, insulin resistance can lead to several serious health conditions, including:

• Type 2 diabetes.

• Cardiovascular disease, such as heart disease and stroke.

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

• High blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels.

• Increased risk of certain cancers, including breast and colon cancer.

 

Is insulin resistance the same as prediabetes?

Insulin resistance and prediabetes are closely related but not the same. Insulin resistance is a condition where your cells don’t respond properly to insulin. Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Insulin resistance is often present before someone develops prediabetes.

 

Can diet alone fix insulin resistance?

Diet plays a crucial role in managing insulin resistance, but it is usually most effective when combined with other lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stress management, and proper sleep. A personalised nutrition plan focusing on blood sugar balance, with support from a nutritionist or health coach, can significantly improve insulin sensitivity over time.

 

How can I prevent insulin resistance?

You can reduce your risk of developing insulin resistance by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight.

• Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods and low in refined sugars.

• Staying physically active.

• Managing stress levels.

• Getting regular, quality sleep.

• Regular health check-ups to monitor blood sugar and insulin levels.

If you think you may have insulin resistance or are at risk, it’s important to seek personalised guidance. This programmes focus on balanced nutrition, movement, and lifestyle adjustments to help you regain your health and improve insulin sensitivity.

Is this programme suitable for women with medical conditions?
Yes, the online nutrition & weight loss plans are suitable for a variety of conditions such as hypothyroidism, PCOS, autoimmune, prediabetes, insulin resistance and menopause. Always consult your healthcare practitioner for individual medical advice before starting a new health plan. 

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