Szosland and Lewiński present a different approach to insulin resistance. The aim of their study was to present and disseminate the opinion that insulin resistance in itself cannot be considered only as a harmful phenomenon. They emphasize that chronic hyperinsulinemia related to IR is a harmful condition.

They define insulin resistance as an important physiological mechanism that is responsible for the body’s adaptation to a number of stresses: physical, emotional or physiological. In order to remain in balance (the so-called homeostasis), which is subject to fluctuations related to the daily cycle, age, physiological state (such as pregnancy), and disease states, the body has the ability to change insulin sensitivity. This is to optimize the division between tissues with a variable supply of nutrients.

As a result of evolution, a state of insulin resistance was created, aimed at short-term energy-intensive activation of the brain or immune system. For example, conditions of the body during the activation of the immune system or fetal development favor a decrease in systemic insulin sensitivity, reducing the absorption of nutrients by non-priority tissues. The authors conclude that IR is a mechanism of antioxidant defense in conditions of excessive supply of high-energy nutrients.

Source: Szosland, Konrad & Lewiński, Andrzej. (2018). Insulin resistance – “the good or the bad and ugly”. Neuro endocrinology letters. 39. 355-362.