Myths about Insulin Resistance: Tribute to Gerald Reaven

Abstract

Gerald Reaven was often called the “father of insulin resistance.” On the 1-year anniversary of his death in 2018, we challenge three myths associated with insulin resistance: metformin improves insulin resistance; measurement of waist circumference predicts insulin resistance better than body mass index; and insulin resistance causes weight gain. In this review, we highlight Reaven's relevant research that helped to dispel these myths associated with insulin resistance.

Keywords

• Insulin resistance
• Metformin
• Waist circumference
• Weight gain