Cardio IQ® Insulin Blood Test

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this Cardio IQ® Insulin Blood Test, which measures insulin levels to help screen for hyperinsulinemia. Insulin is a hormone produced and stored in the pancreas. It is made in response to elevated blood sugar (glucose) after eating and is necessary for transporting and storing glucose, the body's primary energy source. In addition, as insulin helps transport glucose through the bloodstream, it also plays a role in metabolism by regulating blood sugar levels. 

Unfortunately, some individuals may have an underlying health condition, such as insulin resistance which can lead to excess insulin production (hyperinsulinemia). Individuals with chronic insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia have an increased risk of developing chronic high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), which can lead to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

What conditions cause hyperinsulinemia?

Hyperinsulinemia occurs when there is an abnormally high level of insulin in the bloodstream than what is considered normal. Usually, hyperinsulinemia is caused by insulin resistance, which happens when cells in the muscles, fat, and liver cannot produce enough insulin or if the body cannot process it. Insulin resistance typically increases insulin production so the body can maintain healthy blood sugar levels. During this time, the pancreas makes more insulin to overcome the resistance, leading to higher insulin levels in the blood. As a result, the pancreas cannot produce the large amounts of insulin required to keep the blood sugar at a healthy level. This condition is associated with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

In rare cases, hyperinsulinemia may also result from a tumor of the beta cells of the pancreas (insulinoma) or the unregulated secretion of insulin in infants and children, a condition called persistent hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia of infancy (PHHI).

Additionally, individuals with one or more of the following conditions may have an increased risk of developing hyperinsulinemia:

• Obesity
• Metabolic syndrome
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Elevated triglyceride levels
• Elevated uric acid levels
• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

When should I order a Cardio IQ® Insulin Blood Test?

Although many individuals with hyperinsulinemia have no noticeable symptoms, it often results in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, this test may be helpful for those experiencing symptoms related to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, such as:

• Darkened skin in the armpit or back and sides of the neck
• Small skin growths
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Increased hunger
• Blurry vision
• Headaches
• Vaginal and skin infections
• Slow-healing cuts and sores