The fasting insulin blood test is a useful diagnostic technique for determining the body's insulin levels after an overnight fast. In this piece, we'll examine the importance of fasting insulin test findings, concentrating on low and high fasting insulin levels, their effects, and potential next steps.
What Is Insulin?
The hormone insulin is a biomarker of metabolic health, which refers to how easily and effectively the body metabolizes, uses, and stores energy. It is in charge of reducing high blood sugar levels, but in those with poor metabolic health, insulin levels constantly remain higher than in those with good metabolic health (even when there is no food in the body).
What Is Fasting Insulin Test?
After an overnight fast of 8 to 12 hours, a blood sample is drawn for the test, usually in the morning before breakfast. This enables medical experts to evaluate the body's fasting insulin levels while the body is in relaxing mode and the effects of recent meals are at their lowest.
Low Fasting Insulin Levels
Low blood sugar, sometimes known as hypoglycemia, may be indicated by low insulin levels. When the body produces too much insulin in comparison to the amount of accessible glucose in the bloodstream, hypoglycemia results. This can be brought on by increased insulin production, particular drugs, or pancreatic tumours that produce insulin.
Low fasting insulin levels can cause the following symptoms:
- Trembling
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Fast heartbeat
In order to prevent fainting, convulsions, or unconsciousness, severe hypoglycemia must be treated right away with medical intervention.
High Fasting Insulin Levels
Contrary to low fasting insulin levels, high fasting insulin levels could be a sign of prediabetes or insulin resistance, where the body's cells become less receptive to the effects of insulin. In order to counteract the resistance and keep blood sugar levels within normal range, the pancreas generates more insulin as a result.
When left untreated, high fasting insulin levels might cause type 2 diabetes. Regular blood testing is essential for early detection and intervention because people with insulin resistance may not initially show any symptoms.
Consequences and Potential Causes
Low levels of fasting insulin may indicate a disease that affects the metabolism or synthesis of insulin, Insulinoma. A rare pancreatic tumour, specific medications (such insulin-lowering therapies), and severe liver or kidney conditions are all possible causes. To pinpoint the precise cause, additional diagnostic procedures such as imaging scans and glucose tolerance testing may be required.
On the other hand, high fasting insulin levels are frequently linked to insulin resistance, obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy eating habits. By addressing these factors through lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, one may be able to increase insulin sensitivity and can stop the development of type 2 diabetes.
Also Read: Type 1 Diabetes Signs, Symptoms, Prevention, Test Cost
Interpreting Results and Medical Advice
Fasting insulin test results must be interpreted by a trained healthcare provider. It is generally advised to maintain insulin levels between 2.55 and 18.4 IU/mL. A fasting insulin blood test should always be accompanied by a fasting blood glucose test.
To choose the best course of treatment, low or high fasting insulin levels must be compared to other clinical findings and medical history.
It's critical to seek medical treatment right away if your fasting insulin test results fell outside of the normal range. Diabetes complications can be avoided and disorders like hypoglycemia or insulin resistance can be effectively managed with early diagnosis and treatment.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
