What Is Insulin Resistance? (Video Explanation)

In this short video, Dr Sultan Linjawi explains insulin resistance in simple, practical terms — what it is, how it develops, and why it matters for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. For a fuller written explanation, see the article What Is Insulin Resistance? (Full Guide).

What is insulin resistance?

Insulin resistance happens when your body’s cells stop responding properly to insulin — the hormone that helps move glucose from the bloodstream into muscle and fat cells. You can think of insulin as a key and the receptor on the cell surface as a lock. When the lock changes shape, the key no longer opens it easily.

To keep blood glucose in a safe range, the pancreas has to produce more and more insulin. Over time this becomes harder to sustain and glucose levels begin to rise. This process often starts years before a person is diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Key points from the video

• Insulin is the key that allows glucose to move from the blood into muscle and fat cells.
• As fat cells get larger and more inflamed, the insulin receptor (the lock) changes shape.
• The body must make much more insulin just to keep glucose levels under control.
• Over time, the pancreas cannot keep up and blood glucose levels start to rise.
• Insulin resistance usually develops years before type 2 diabetes is diagnosed.
• Weight loss, moving more, better sleep and stress reduction all help insulin work better again.

Why does insulin resistance matter?

Insulin resistance sits at the heart of many common conditions — including prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver and metabolic syndrome. Understanding this one idea helps explain why gaining weight around the middle, feeling more tired, or needing higher doses of medicines often go hand-in-hand.

The good news is that insulin resistance is not an all-or-nothing switch. It can often be improved — and sometimes partly reversed — with steady changes in food, activity, weight, sleep and stress over time.

For a deeper written explanation and diagrams, visit the full article: Insulin Resistance Explained: Causes, Risks & Treatment Options.

What if you are worried about insulin resistance?

If you are concerned about insulin resistance, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, talk with your doctor about blood tests and your individual risk. Many people benefit from a structured plan that combines:

• Gradual, sustainable weight loss (even 5–10% can help)
• More regular movement and resistance exercise
• Healthier food choices that fit your preferences and culture
• Better sleep routines and stress management

Our online programs for Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes are designed to support you step by step alongside your usual medical care.

Further reading from trusted organisations

For more background on insulin resistance and prediabetes, you may find these resources helpful:

• NIDDK (USA) – Overview of insulin resistance and prediabetes – NIDDK: Prediabetes & Insulin Resistance
• CDC (USA) – Insulin resistance and risk of type 2 diabetes – CDC: Insulin Resistance Basics

These links are for general education only and do not replace personalised medical advice. Always speak with your own healthcare professional before making changes to your treatment.