Hormone Health Hub: Expert Insights on Testing, Balance & Better Living — insulin and metabolism

A fasting insulin test helps identify early signs of insulin resistance, often before blood sugar levels become abnormal. By measuring insulin after an overnight fast, it provides valuable insight into metabolic health, energy balance, and long-term risks such as diabetes and heart disease. Easy at-home testing with a simple finger-prick sample allows you to understand your insulin levels clearly and take proactive steps to protect your health.

When a patient with PCOS or weight issues is told “your blood sugar is normal,” the story is far from over. In this clinical article, Dr. Alison McAllister of ZRT Laboratory explains why insulin — not glucose — is the primary driver of PCOS symptoms, weight gain, testosterone and DHEAS excess, and cortisol dysfunction. Understanding the progression from insulin resistance to hyperinsulinemia to type 2 diabetes is essential for identifying and treating PCOS at the earliest possible stage.