Adiponectin insulin resistance and artheriosclerosis
This test measures Adiponectin levels in serum.
It charts your risk of insulin resistance, arteriosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
Adiponectin is a protein produced almost exclusively in fat cells. Adiponectin plays a protective role in the initiation and progression of arteriosclerosis. In people with obesity,type 2 diabetes, arteriosclerosis and coronary heart disease, the adiponectin concentration in the blood is lower than in people of normal weight.
Low adiponectin concentration is associated with reduced insulin sensitivity. Logically, high concentrations of adiponectin are associated with good insulin sensitivity.
The cause of type 2 diabetes is thought to be long-term and low-level inflammation in adipose tissue. Adiponectin possibly lowers this level of inflammation.
Osteoarthritis can also be caused by a lack of adiponectin. This is a protein that arises from adipose tissue and actually protects against wear and tear. Adiponectin enters the joints through the bloodstream. So a little fat is good. No overweight of course because then the balance will tip again. The amount of adiponectin is then overshadowed by the extra pounds pressing on the joints. It has to be in balance.
- With a result higher than 10 milligrams per liter, you have a low risk of insulin resistance and arteriosclerosis.
- With a result lower than 4 milligrams per liter, you have an increased risk of insulin resistance and arteriosclerosis.
Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15149866/
Adiponectin is a protein hormone produced and secreted by fat cells (adipocytes). It plays an important role in several physiological processes, particularly in connection with metabolism and the regulation of insulin sensitivity.
Insulin sensitivity: Adiponectin is known for its insulin-lowering effects. Higher levels of adiponectin are associated with improved insulin sensitivity, meaning your body is better able to use insulin to regulate blood sugar.
Inflammatory status: Adiponectin has anti-inflammatory properties. Higher levels of this hormone are generally associated with a reduced inflammatory response in the body.
Metabolism: Adiponectin may play a role in regulating the metabolism of fatty acids and glucose. It may help maintain a healthy energy balance.
Weight regulation: Research has shown that adiponectin levels are often inversely related to body fat; this means that people of healthy weight often have higher levels of adiponectin than those who are overweight.
Cardiovascular health: Low levels of adiponectin are associated with certain cardiovascular risk factors. Measuring adiponectin can provide information about cardiovascular risk.
Adiponectin values are only one aspect is of a comprehensive health assessment. It must be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical data and risk factors. Always discuss the results with a health care provider because they can put the information in the context of your individual health situation.
