Beyond Sugar: Apollo Neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar Identifies 5 Key Drivers of Insulin Resistance

While sugar intake is the most common target of health warnings, Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a senior neurologist at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, explains that insulin resistance—the precursor to Type 2 diabetes—is driven by a more complex set of lifestyle factors. In a detailed series of insights shared on X, Dr. Kumar emphasized that metabolic health is modifiable and depends on more than just diet.

The primary driver identified is visceral fat, or belly fat, which accumulates around internal organs. Dr. Kumar clarified that body weight alone is not a perfect indicator of risk; while muscle mass or subcutaneous fat (under the skin) are less concerning, visceral fat actively disrupts insulin signaling. This means even “thin” individuals can be metabolically unhealthy if they carry weight around their midsection.

The second major driver is a sedentary lifestyle. Prolonged sitting, particularly in office or urban settings, severely impairs the body’s ability to process insulin effectively. Beyond these, Dr. Kumar noted that poor sleep quality, food quality (processed vs. whole foods), and chronic stress play equally critical roles in driving resistance. By addressing these five pillars, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing chronic metabolic disorders.