How to Know If You’re Insulin Resistant: 2 Simple Tests

In this “Smart Ideas” episode, Lindsay Venn, our Medical Health Director, simplifies how to determine if you are insulin resistant—a condition affecting millions yet often overlooked by standard medical screenings. Many people wonder how to evaluate their metabolic health without invasive or expensive tests. Lindsay offers two clear and accessible methods that anyone can use to identify insulin resistance and understand its severity.

First, Lindsay introduces the triglyceride-to-HDL ratio, a metric you can calculate using data from your regular cholesterol panel. This ratio provides key insights into your metabolic health, with specific thresholds revealing whether you’re in the clear, at risk, or already experiencing insulin resistance. She breaks down the ranges, explaining how a number greater than 1.5 is a strong indicator of insulin resistance, while numbers below 1 show optimal metabolic function.

Next, she highlights the HOMA-IR score, which combines fasting glucose and fasting insulin levels to give a precise measure of insulin resistance severity. Lindsay explains how to use online calculators to determine your score and walks you through the thresholds: less than 1 indicates no insulin resistance, while numbers above 3 reflect severe metabolic issues. She also shares practical tips for obtaining these labs, even if your doctor doesn’t routinely test for fasting insulin, pointing out affordable options for self-ordering labs when necessary.

Additionally, Lindsay shares inspiring real-life examples of people who’ve used these tools to better understand their health and avoid unnecessary medications like statins. She emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to monitor and improve your metabolic health, offering encouragement and actionable advice for beginners and experienced health enthusiasts alike.

Start your journey toward better health today by understanding your numbers and taking control of your metabolic future.