It is estimated that between 40% to 50% of American adults have insulin resistance. This condition is characterized by higher levels of the hormone insulin as well as cells that become resistant to its glucose-transporting mechanism. In addition to the risk of prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance is associated with increased cancer risk for people with obesity and Type 2 diabetes. You can identify insulin resistance through blood tests that demonstrate an increased fasting glucose, elevated fasting insulin, or elevated hemoglobin A1C.

The authors of a recent paper state that elevated circulating insulin levels are associated with increased cancer risk and progression based on epidemiology research. In addition, the authors note that diabetes is a risk factor for several cancers. The study’s authors also recommend caloric restriction and reduced carbohydrates to reduce circulating insulin levels in people with obesity and type 2 diabetes that has cancer. Additionally, I would recommend the diet be rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes) and healthy fats.

Additional research reports that insulin acts as a growth factor on cells, especially cancer cells that commonly have overexpression of their insulin receptors. In addition, elevated insulin levels may increase the activity of bioavailable IGF-1, which is a growth factor that fuels cancer growth.

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Dr. Mark Stengler NMD, MS, is a bestselling author in private practice in Encinitas, California, at the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine. His newsletter, Dr. Stengler’s Health Breakthroughs, is available at  www.markstengler.com and his product line at www.drstengler.com