Characteristics And Treatment Of Hyperinsulinism

Metabolic diseases manifest themselves through various signs and symptoms, and an increase in insulin values ​​is one of them. It is actually commonly associated with type-2 diabetes. Hyperinsulinism is serious, although its treatment is quite simple. In today’s article we will discuss it in detail.

First, we will review the functions of insulin. It is the hormone that is responsible for regulating the levels of glucose in the blood. It thus promotes the penetration of sugar into the muscles and other peripheral tissues.

Hyperinsulinism

It is a well-known disorder, but it is difficult to give an exact definition of what it is. Some describe it as too much insulin in the blood. However, it is difficult to determine when it is present since there are no reference values.

In most cases, doctors diagnose it when performing tests for other diseases. They do this by comparing the levels of glucose and insulin in the blood during periods of fasting.

The symptoms of this change in hormones are not exact, but high levels of insulin, hypoglycaemia and low levels of glucose in the blood are common. Hypoglycaemia is not specific and can be a symptom of many disorders.

The following stand out among the symptoms that people with hyperinsulinism may experience:

• Desire for sugar and carbohydrates.
• Weight gain and weight loss problems.
• Exhaustion and lack of motivation.
• Lack of concentration.
• Increased appetite.

Treatment of hyperinsulinism

The treatment of hyperinsulinism is very similar to that of type-2 diabetes. The medical approach to both focuses on a patient’s lifestyle change. In general, the goal for them is to get healthier habits in everyday life.

Dietary changes

The first thing a doctor will prescribe for a person with hyperinsulinism will be a healthy, low-calorie diet to achieve weight loss. Researchers actually observed that a reduction of 5 to 10% of body weight is enough to improve various metabolic disorders.

In this regard, they also recommend a significant reduction in carbohydrate intake to reduce the level of glucose in the blood. At the same time  , they should limit the intake of saturated fat and trans fat. Ideally, they should maintain a daily intake of less than 7% saturated fat and less than 1% trans fat.

In addition, they should also increase their intake of foods rich in fiber such as whole grains, fruits, grains and vegetables. In addition to this, they must also increase the intake of monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. The daily intake of proteins should be around 20%.

Exercise and weight loss

This part is about supplementing a healthy diet in order to promote weight loss. Dietary changes and a slight weight loss reduce the chances of suffering from type-2 diabetes after having hyperinsulinism by 58%.

In that sense, having aerobic exercise for 30 to 40 minutes four times a week improves one’s quality of life. In addition, it is important not to take more than two days off between routines. It is primarily to get better results.

In addition, start with light exercises and gradually increase the level of difficulty as your fitness improves if you have had a sedentary lifestyle since you started.

Reducing stress

Psychological stress affects the body and can lead to excessive release of glucose into the bloodstream and as a consequence also an additional release of insulin. Chronic stress promotes hyperinsulinism.

Reducing stress is thus part of the treatment of hyperinsulinism. This is why professionals often recommend leading a less hectic life through various relaxation techniques.

Pharmacological and surgical treatment of hyperinsulinism

There are times when it takes more than lifestyle changes to improve hyperinsulinism. In these cases, a patient may need pharmacological treatment, which should be tailored to their individual needs.

These are some of the medicines that a doctor can prescribe:

• Inhibitors of insulin release.
• Stimulants of the release of glucose.
• Inhibitors of the effect of insulin.

There are times when hyperinsulinism may be due to a tumor in the pancreas that produces insulin. They may require a slightly more aggressive approach, even after a pancreatectomy.

Treatment of hyperinsulinism and lifestyle

As you can see, the  diagnosis of hyperinsulinism is complex and often goes unnoticed. However, the treatment protocol is easy to follow. In most cases, a radical change towards a healthier lifestyle can significantly improve the situation.

Lastly, any person with hyperinsulinism should improve their diet, increase physical activity and reduce stress. This is because all of this will lower the level of blood sugar and consequently reduce the release of insulin.

Thanks for reading.