Insulin Resistance Index

Insulin resistance (IR) is a condition characterised by resistance to the effects of insulin at a cellular level.  Muscle and adipose tissue require increasing greater amounts of insulin to transfer sugars from the bloodstream.  Higher levels of pancreatic insulin synthesis are required to maintain normal blood levels and, therefore both fasting and post-prandial glucose levels rise.  Increasing HOMA scores reflect this.  Untreated insulin resistance may lead to diabetes and require medical intervention and ongoing treatment.

Insulin Resistance is calculated from both the fasting insulin and fasting glucose results to create the HOMA score (homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance).

Insulin resistance is a key component of the Metabolic Syndrome along with abdominal obesity, elevated LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, low HDL cholesterol and high blood pressure.

A strong family history of diabetes is a major risk factor for high levels of insulin resistance, along with high GI carbohydrates intake including excessive alcohol consumption; lack of regular exercise; stress and nutritional deficiencies such as chromium, vanadium and magnesium.

Test details

• Test code: 1109
• Category: Hormone Health
• Kit requirements: SST or FLOX
• Collection method: CI05.15.01
• Test method: Automated chemistry (Roche Diagnostics)
• Turnaround time: 1-2 Business Days

What is measured

• Fasting Glucose
• fasting Insulin
• HOMA-IR score (homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance)

Common clinical applications

• Cardiovascular Health
  • Cardiovascular Disease
  • Hypercholesterolaemia
  • Hypertension
  • Hypertriglyceridaemia
• Nutritional and Dietary Symptoms
  • Obesity
• Endocrine and Hormonal Health
  • Pre-diabetes

Resources

• Patient Brochure
• Sample Report

This test should be ordered and interpreted with guidance from a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Important: Test information is general only. Results should be interpreted with a qualified health practitioner and do not replace medical advice or diagnosis.