What is insulin resistance and its impact on fasting?

Insulin resistance is a condition where fat cells, muscle cells, and liver cells do not respond adequately to normal concentrations of insulin. This means that these cells require higher levels of insulin to respond effectively. In other words, the cells become less responsive or insensitive to insulin, even though the pancreas is still producing it. Over time, as the condition progresses, insulin secretion may also become progressively inadequate. This condition was formerly known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. In fat cells, insulin resistance leads to the breakdown of stored triglycerides, increasing plasma-free fatty acid levels. In muscle cells, it reduces glucose uptake, and in liver cells, it diminishes glucose storage. Both of these effects result in elevated blood glucose levels. High levels of insulin and glucose in the blood due to insulin resistance often lead to metabolic syndrome, gout, and type 2 diabetes.