HOMA-IR
Track HOMA-IR for insulin resistance and diabetes risk assessment. Learn about metabolic health through precision monitoring insights.
What is HOMA-IR?
HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) estimates insulin resistance using fasting glucose and insulin levels. It calculates how much insulin your body needs to maintain normal glucose levels, with higher values indicating greater insulin resistance.
Why is it Tested?
Doctors use HOMA-IR to assess insulin resistance in patients at risk for type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It helps evaluate diabetes risk and monitor metabolic improvements with lifestyle changes or medications.
Normal Ranges
HOMA-IR interpretation guidelines:
- Normal: <2.5
- Borderline insulin resistance: 2.5–5.0
- Significant insulin resistance: >5.0
Values represent the mathematical relationship between fasting insulin and glucose, with higher scores indicating decreased insulin sensitivity.
Reference ranges vary by authority. Track yours across multiple standards with automatic unit conversions in LabsVault.
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
Abnormal results are not a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.
Borderline Values (2.5-5.0)
Moderate insulin resistance may indicate:
- Early metabolic dysfunction
- Increased diabetes risk
- Need for lifestyle intervention
- Genetic predisposition to insulin resistance
High Values (>5.0)
Significant insulin resistance suggests:
- High risk for type 2 diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- PCOS
- Need for medical evaluation and intervention
How to Track Over Time
HOMA-IR responds to lifestyle changes including weight loss, exercise, and dietary modifications. Tracking trends helps monitor metabolic health improvements and guide interventions to prevent progression to type 2 diabetes or manage existing insulin resistance.
Track your HOMA-IR results over time
Upload your lab PDFs and see trends automatically.