How does insulin resistance primarily affect glucose metabolism?

Insulin resistance primarily affects glucose metabolism by disrupting glucose uptake by cells. In a healthy metabolic state, insulin facilitates the entry of glucose into various cells, including muscle and fat tissue, by promoting the translocation of glucose transporters to the cell membrane. However, when insulin resistance occurs, the body's cells become less responsive to insulin. This reduced sensitivity means that insulin cannot effectively signal cells to take up glucose. As a result, despite the presence of insulin, glucose remains elevated in the bloodstream because it is not being utilized efficiently by the cells.

This condition can lead to hyperglycemia, where blood sugar levels rise due to the impaired ability of cells to absorb glucose. Over time, continued exposure to high glucose levels can further exacerbate insulin resistance and contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders. The profound impact of insulin resistance on glucose uptake underscores its significance in metabolic health and disease management.