How does the body typically respond in Type 2 diabetes regarding insulin?

In Type 2 diabetes, the primary issue is that the body develops resistance to insulin. This means that the cells in the body become less responsive to insulin, which is the hormone responsible for facilitating the uptake of glucose into the cells for energy. As a result, the pancreas tries to compensate for this resistance by producing more insulin.

Initially, the body can often maintain normal blood glucose levels due to this increased insulin production. However, over time, if the insulin resistance persists, the pancreas may struggle to keep up with the body's demand for insulin, potentially leading to elevated blood glucose levels.

Insulin resistance is associated with various factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and genetic predisposition, making it a key component of Type 2 diabetes management strategies, which focus on improving insulin sensitivity through lifestyle changes and, when necessary, medication.