Myth Buster: The REAL Cause of Type 2 Diabetes Isn’t Sugar — It’s Insulin Resistance

Most people believe Type 2 Diabetes starts when blood sugar rises. However, long before that happens, the body has already been struggling with something deeper: Insulin Resistance.

As a Diabetes Reversal Coach, I see this pattern every day!

What Is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin is the hormone that helps move glucose into your cells. When cells become resistant, several things happen:

• The pancreas produces MORE insulin.

• Insulin levels stay high for years.

• Fatigue, cravings, and belly fat begin to develop.

• Eventually, the pancreas can’t keep up, leading to rising blood sugar levels.

  
  

By the time blood sugar is high, insulin resistance has often existed for 5–10 years. This is a crucial point to understand!

Early Detection (Before Diabetes Shows Up)

Lab Markers to Watch

Here are some lab markers that can indicate insulin resistance:

• Fasting insulin > 8–10

• HOMA-IR > 1.9

• Triglycerides > 150

• Low HDL

• HbA1c 5.7–6.4%

  
  

Body Signals to Notice

In addition to lab markers, pay attention to these body signals:

• Belly fat

• Tiredness after meals

• Sugar cravings

• Brain fog

• Skin tags or dark neck pigmentation

  
  

These symptoms are not random; they’re early metabolic alarms that should not be ignored!

How Insulin Resistance Develops

Insulin resistance develops through a series of steps:

1. Cells become overloaded with energy.

2. They stop responding to insulin.

3. The body pushes more insulin to “force” glucose into the cells.

4. High insulin levels lead to fat gain, inflammation, and increased hunger.

   
   

Eventually, the pancreas tires out, leading to Type 2 Diabetes. It’s important to remember that insulin resistance is the first domino that falls. The rise in blood sugar is the last.

The Good News: It’s Reversible

The great news is that improving insulin sensitivity can prevent—and often reverse—Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Here are some daily actions you can take:

• Add 30–40g of protein per meal. This helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

• Take a 10-minute walk after each meal. This simple habit can improve insulin sensitivity.

• Practice 12–14 hours of overnight fasting. This gives your body time to reset.

• Reduce refined carbs and ultra-processed foods. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.

• Incorporate strength training 2–3 times a week. Building muscle helps improve insulin sensitivity.

• Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep. Quality sleep is crucial for metabolic health.

• Manage stress through techniques like breathing exercises and grounding. Stress can negatively impact insulin sensitivity.

  
  

Small changes can lead to a big metabolic impact!

Final Takeaway

Diabetes doesn’t “suddenly” appear. Your body gives you early signals. When we address insulin resistance first, blood sugar levels can naturally improve.

Let’s shift the narrative from fear to early awareness and empowered action. Together, we can make a difference!

Remember: The journey to better health starts with understanding your body and taking proactive steps. If you want to learn more about reversing diabetes, check out this resource.

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