Correlations between measures of insulin sensitivity and weight loss

Abstract 

Objective

Many formulas have been proposed to calculate insulin sensitivity and studies have shown their effectiveness. However, few studies have been done to compare formulas.

Methods

Seventy-two obese participants completed a randomized weight loss study. Weight loss, change in body fat and change in waist circumference were used as surrogates for change in insulin sensitivity. Correlation coefficients were calculated for each of these surrogates with proposed formulas for insulin sensitivity found in the literature.

Results

The change in insulin sensitivity using the formula proposed by McAuley (exp(2.63−0.28×ln(fasting insulin)−0.31×ln(fasting triglyceride in mmol/l)) showed the greatest correlation with weight loss (r=−0.59, p<0.0001) and was statistically superior to change in fasting glucose, fasting insulin and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA).

Conclusions

The insulin sensitivity formula proposed by McAuley provides an accurate means of detecting insulin resistance. As it does not require a glucose tolerance test, it is also easier and less expensive than most other formulas. Use of this formula rather than fasting glucose would detect many more patients with insulin resistance who are at risk for subsequent diabetes and other complications.

Keywords: Insulin sensitivity index, Obesity, Weight loss, Insulin resistance, Metabolic syndrome