Healthy Living: 7 Crucial Steps To Reduce Insulin Resistance In The Body And Prevent Diabetes

What is insulin resistance? Insulin resistance happens when the body does not respond the way it should to insulin, which is a hormone that the pancreas makes. It is essential for regulating blood sugar levels. Many genetic and lifestyle factors contribute to insulin resistance. According to the Cleveland Clinic, if your cells become too resistant to insulin, it leads to elevated blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia), which can cause prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. In insulin resistance, the cells stop responding effectively to insulin, causing the body to 'work harder' to maintain blood sugar levels, nutritionist Bhakti Arora Kapoor explained. She added that making some lifestyle changes can help improve insulin sensitivity and overall health. Scroll down to find out more.Protein power The nutritionist explained in an Instagram post that one should aim for 20+ grams of protein per meal to support muscle maintenance and to help manage blood sugar levels.Stress management According to the expert, it is important to keep stress at bay by engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and/or yoga.Strength training Incorporate strength training exercises into your fitness routine to build muscle power and to improve insulin sensitivity.Daily movement Find the joy in moving your body every day -- whether it is by walking, dancing, or doing yoga. Movement is essential to keep diseases at bay, especially diabetes and prediabetes.Eat fibre-rich foods Make sure to eat plenty of fibre from fruits, veggies, and whole grains to support digestive health and to control blood sugar.Get good sleep Make sure you get quality sleep every night. Try to hit the bed and wake up around the same time every day. The expert suggested prioritising 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to keep hormones balanced, and for your metabolism to continue being healthy.Carb pairing According to the nutritionist, you can enjoy carbs in moderation, and pair them with protein and fats to 'stabilise' blood sugar levels. Embrace these habits and work towards a healthier, and a more balanced life.