An index that estimates insulin resistance using your fasting glucose and insulin.
HOMA-IR is a calculated index, not a separate blood test. It estimates insulin resistance, how well your body responds to insulin, from a single fasting blood sample.
The formula in SI units is: HOMA-IR = (fasting insulin in mU/L × fasting glucose in mmol/L) ÷ 22.5.
When cells respond poorly to insulin, the pancreas releases more to keep blood sugar normal. HOMA-IR captures this by combining fasting glucose and insulin into one number, giving an early read on metabolic health before blood sugar itself rises.
A higher HOMA-IR points to greater insulin resistance, which is linked to prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver and cardiovascular risk. A lower value reflects good insulin sensitivity.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
Interpretive thresholds, which vary by population and insulin assay:
Cutoffs are not fully standardised and differ between labs and ethnic groups, so read as guidance with your clinician.
HOMA-IR needs a genuine fasting sample, since recent food raises insulin and glucose. Insulin assays are not standardised between labs, so absolute values should not be compared across providers. It is not valid in people treated with insulin and is less reliable in established diabetes.
Read with its components, fasting insulin and fasting glucose, and alongside HbA1c, triglycerides and HDL.
What does a HOMA-IR result mean? It estimates how resistant your body is to insulin at rest. Higher scores suggest more resistance; lower scores suggest better sensitivity.
Do I need to fast for this test? Yes. HOMA-IR uses fasting glucose and fasting insulin, so avoid food and drinks except water for 8 to 12 hours.
What can affect my result? Meals, hard exercise, poor sleep, stress, alcohol, illness, and some medicines can shift glucose and insulin. Biotin and certain supplements may affect insulin assays.
How often should I check it? Many people recheck every 3 to 6 months when making lifestyle changes. Your clinician may suggest a different schedule based on your goals.
How long do results take? Results are usually ready in about 7 days.
What should I discuss with my clinician? Review your results alongside glucose, HbA1c, weight, waist size, and medications. Ask whether other tests or lifestyle steps could help.
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