Insulin Resistance in Women: Signs, Risks and What To Do Next
December 02, 2025
Have you been wondering why your belly fat won’t budge, why you’re craving carbs more than usual or why you feel wiped out after eating? Many women chalk it up to stress or age, but these can actually be early signs of insulin resistance. And here’s the surprising part: according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 1 in 3 Americans has prediabetes, which often means underlying insulin resistance they don’t even know about.
To break down what’s normal, what’s not and when to take action, we spoke with Jennifer Cheng, D.O., chief of endocrinology at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. She explains what insulin resistance really means for women and how to spot the signs early.
What is Insulin Resistance?
Insulin resistance happens when your body makes insulin but doesn’t use it effectively. As a result, your pancreas works harder and harder to keep your blood sugar stable.
“Insulin resistance is a term to describe that the body is not able to use the insulin that is produced by the pancreas and the body needs more and more insulin to function the same,” Dr. Cheng explains. She adds that as people gain weight, “the insulin goes in the fat tissue instead of staying in the bloodstream where it is effective.”
What Does Insulin Resistance Feel Like in Women?
You may not feel anything at first. But many women notice small changes that are easy to overlook.
Common early signs of insulin resistance include:
- Afternoon fatigue or “post-meal crashes”
- An increase in skin tags
- Dark, velvety skin patches on the neck, armpits or groin
- Persistent belly fat (visceral fat that drives insulin resistance)
- Sugar or carb cravings, especially feeling extremely tired after large or sugary meals
Dr. Cheng notes that sugar cravings and fatigue “may be the first signs of insulin resistance and the body not processing sugar properly.”
How Common Is Insulin Resistance?
Insulin resistance is extremely common — especially with rising obesity rates.
“[It’s] very common with the obesity epidemic in the world,” Dr. Cheng explains. “As people gain more weight, there is more insulin resistance.”
She also points to national numbers: “As per the CDC, 1 out of 3 Americans has pre diabetes and likely insulin resistance.”
Why Is Insulin Resistance a Bigger Concern for Women Over 50?
Hormonal changes during and after menopause increase insulin resistance.
According to Dr. Cheng: “The drop of estrogen impacts how the body responds to insulin and there is increase in fat and loss of muscle that may occur around this age. There is more belly fat that contributes to insulin resistance.”
This combination makes midlife a key time to pay attention to symptoms.
What Happens if Insulin Resistance Goes Untreated?
If insulin resistance continues unchecked, it can lead to:
- Chronic inflammation and metabolic stress
- Eye, kidney and heart disease
- Fatty liver disease
- Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
“[Insulin resistance] can increase risk for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes, [and it may] increase risk for fatty liver disease,” emphasizes Dr. Cheng.
Is It Better To Address Insulin Resistance Early?
Yes. Early action can prevent long-term complications.
“Prevention is key,” says Dr. Cheng. “Addressing insulin resistance early will help prevent future complications.”
She adds that focusing on diet, foods and exercise can help decrease resistance before it becomes prediabetes or diabetes.
What Steps Help Reduce Insulin Resistance?
Improving insulin resistance doesn’t require an extreme overhaul. Instead, think simple changes to your daily habits.
Dr. Cheng recommends:
- Balanced diet with vegetables, lean proteins and fewer processed carbs
- Daily movement, about 30 minutes a day
- Lower stress, since cortisol raises blood sugar
- Sleep (aim for 8 hours)
- Strength training to build muscle that uses blood sugar efficiently
“Your mind can really affect your body,” she says. Reducing stress and improving sleep both help improve insulin function.
How Can I Tell If My Efforts Are Working?
Positive changes often show up as:
- Better overall energy
- Fewer sugar cravings
- Less afternoon fatigue
- Weight loss around the abdomen
Dr. Cheng notes that many women will notice “better energy and less afternoon fatigue” along with decreased cravings.
What to Remember About Insulin Resistance
If you’re wondering if you have insulin resistance, keep these takeaways in mind:
- Insulin resistance is extremely common and often goes unnoticed
- Women over 50 face increased risk due to hormonal changes
- Early signs include belly fat, cravings, low energy and dark skin patches
- Lifestyle changes can significantly improve insulin function
- Early action can help prevent diabetes and long-term complications
If you’re experiencing these symptoms or simply want to understand your risk, reach out to your provider. A simple blood test can help give you answers. As Dr. Cheng reminds women, “Stay positive, and motivate yourself to make a difference to take control of your health.”
You're not alone in this. Your care team can help you feel better, support your goals and protect your long-term health.
Next Steps & Resources
- Meet our source: Jennifer Cheng, D.O.
- To make an appointment, call 800-822-8905 or find a doctor near you.
- Explore the endocrinology and diabetes services at Hackensack Meridian Health.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
