Chapter

Understanding the Role of Insulin in Blood Sugar Levels
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31:48 - 37:20 (05:32)

The fasting glucose level is directionally interesting, but the insulin level gives a more fine-tuned insight into blood sugar levels. Even stress can play a role in glucose levels, which is why it's important to take into account insulin sensitivity when monitoring blood sugar levels.

Clips
When doing an oral glucose tolerance test, it's crucial to consider the patient's diet leading up to it, particularly if they're on a low-carbohydrate diet, as their glucose and insulin levels could become elevated after being challenged.
31:48 - 34:21 (02:32)
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Oral glucose tolerance test
Summary

When doing an oral glucose tolerance test, it's crucial to consider the patient's diet leading up to it, particularly if they're on a low-carbohydrate diet, as their glucose and insulin levels could become elevated after being challenged. The solution is to have the patient refeed with carbohydrates for several days prior to the test to get a more accurate result.

Chapter
Understanding the Role of Insulin in Blood Sugar Levels
Episode
#04 - AMA #1: alcohol, best lab tests, wearables, finding the right doc, racing, and more
Podcast
The Peter Attia Drive
The difference between fasting glucose levels may be more related to cortisol levels than insulin sensitivity.
34:21 - 37:20 (02:59)
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Glucose, Insulin, Cortisol, Stress
Summary

The difference between fasting glucose levels may be more related to cortisol levels than insulin sensitivity. While fasting glucose is directionally interesting, insulin provides more fine-tuned insights on glucose levels.

Chapter
Understanding the Role of Insulin in Blood Sugar Levels
Episode
#04 - AMA #1: alcohol, best lab tests, wearables, finding the right doc, racing, and more
Podcast
The Peter Attia Drive