475. Prediabetes, Metabolic Health, and Insulin Resistance with Dr. Mark Hyman, Dr. Casey Means, and Dr. Robert Lustig

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is a protective mechanism where cells become less sensitive to insulin, preventing excess glucose from entering. Dr. Casey Means explains that this occurs when mitochondria, responsible for energy production, are overwhelmed or damaged by oxidative stress, leading to a backup of glucose in the cells 1. This condition results in elevated blood glucose levels, contributing to metabolic disorders. Jeff Krasno emphasizes the importance of understanding metabolism to manage glucose levels effectively 2.

It's not that hard, and it can radically change your health if you get on top of metabolism, how to produce energy properly in your body, and, of course, therefore, how to get your glucose levels under better control.

--- Dr. Casey Means

Robert Lustig adds that this is a consistent, constant process 3.

   

Dual Role

Insulin plays a dual role in the body, managing both energy storage and cell growth. Robert Lustig describes insulin as the energy storage hormone, facilitating the storage of excess glucose as fat 4. He explains that insulin operates through two pathways: the metabolic pathway, which lowers blood glucose and promotes storage, and the cell growth pathway, which can lead to cell proliferation and potentially cancer 5.

Insulin is the energy storage hormone. That's the way you need to think about it now in order to do its job. Insulin has two pathways in the cell. One we will call the metabolic pathway, and the other one we will call the cell growth pathway.

--- Robert Lustig

High insulin levels, often due to excessive sugar consumption, can lead to chronic metabolic diseases and unregulated cell growth.

   

Testing

Monitoring insulin levels is crucial for assessing metabolic health. Mark Hyman recommends testing fasting insulin levels as a primary indicator of longevity and aging 6. Elevated insulin levels can lead to insulin resistance and chronic diseases, making it essential to maintain them within a healthy range. Robert Lustig highlights that high insulin levels are often caused by liver fat accumulation due to excessive sugar intake 7.

A good fasting insulin level would be anywhere from two to seven. Okay, our fast, you know, fasting insulin, median is about twelve. And if you're above 15. You're going to die. You're going to die from insulin resistance.

--- Robert Lustig

Future advancements may include continuous insulin monitors, providing more precise metabolic health assessments.