Glucose
and insulin are key agents in the process of lipid (fat) synthesis
that affects muscle, liver, and fatty tissue throughout the body.
Consequently, impaired glucose tolerance occurs more frequently
in obese than in non-obese persons.
Disruption of glucose metabolism can
lead to bouts of hypoglycemia (periods
of low blood sugar), which are often
accompanied by intense cravings for
foods and sweets. This imbalance may
then promote an unhealthy pattern of
binge and/or over-eating that encourages
obesity and further perpetuates more
glucose imbalances. Without proper treatment,
this cycle can be extremely difficult
to break. Since insulin secretion is
directly affected by the degree of body
fat, insulin sensitivity is often impaired
even in obese persons with normal glucose
tolerance.1
Moreover, studies indicate that many
of these disorders, such as hyperinsulinemia
and insulin resistance, often occur early
in the development of obesity in preadolescent
children.2
The implications can be serious. Insulin
resistance in obese subjects is linked
to obesity hypertension and the subsequent
development of cardiovascular disease,
perhaps through the effects of hyperinsulinemia
on fatty acid metabolism.3
The Glucose and Insulin Tolerance
Test employs a glucose challenge
and blood sample to assess the
relationship of insulin and glucose.
The test provides important information
about hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia,
and insulin resistance which
can be used to develop appropriate
natural therapies.4,5
References
1 Scheen
AJ, Paquot N, Letiexhe MR, Paolisso G, Castillo MJ, Lefebvre PJ.
Glucose metabolism in obese
subjects: lessons from OGTT, IVGTT and clamp studies. Int J Obes
Relat Metab Disor 1995;19 Suppl 3:S14-20.
2 Macor
C, Ruggeri A, Mazzonetto P, Federspil G, Cobelli C, Vettor R. Visceral
adipose tissue impairs insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity
but not energy expediture in obesity. Metabolism 1997;46(2):123-9.
3 Caprio
S, Bronson M, Sherwin RS, Rife F, Tamborlane WV. Co-existence of
severe insulin resistance and hyperinsulinaemia in pre-adolescent
obese children. Diabetologia 1996;39(12):1489-97.
4 Rocchini
AP. Insulin resistance, obesity and hypertension. J Nutr 1995;125
(6 Suppl):1718S 1724S.
5 Egan
BM, Hennes MM, Stepniakowski KT, O'Shaghnessy IM, Kissebah AH, Goodfriend
TL. Hypertension 1996;27(3):723-8.
Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed
and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification
and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing
this disorder.
For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083
and go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for
information.
Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice
for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is
so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach.
Remember that the body can heal itself if given the
proper nutrients.
The information herein is not intended as diagnosis,
treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition
please seek the advice of your medical doctor. |
