Glossary of Terms

Insulin resistance: Insulin resistance is a major cause of type 2 diabetes. In a person with type 2 diabetes, the body does make insulin, but the body can't use it properly, because of insulin resistance. After eating a meal, the pancreas makes insulin and releases it. The insulin then travels to the muscle and fat cells, causing special substances to move out to the cells so they open up and take glucose inside. In people who have type 2 diabetes, however, insulin resistance stops the cells from getting all the blood sugar they can use. Insulin resistance increases with weight gain and age, but it can also be a problem for those who are not overweight. If you have type 2 diabetes, you may have a hard time controlling your blood sugar levels, no matter how much insulin your body is given or makes for itself.