Could you have insulin resistance or pre-diabetes? Insulin Resistance is a silent condition which occurs when cells in your body stop responding to insulin. Insulin is produced in response to blood sugar sugar - it tells the cells to metabolise the sugar by burning out for energy or storing. Insulin helps keep your blood sugar levels stable so that sugar can be used as a fuel source in your muscles and liver.

People with insulin resistance have normal blood glucose levels, which is why it is hard to diagnose. However although the blood sugar levels are being controlled, more and more insulin is required. The presence of all this excess insulin in the body is thought to be linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, fatty liver and even some cancers as well as type 2 diabetes.

Pre-diabetes is a condition in which blood glucose are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. People with prediabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and CVD, which can lead to heart attack or stroke.

A new client of mine came to see as she had a health scare. Her blood sugars were on the high side. She was sent for a fasting glucose test which found Impaired Glucose Intolerance with a level of 8.3 (normal range is 3.6-7.7). My client saw a diabetic consultant who was helpful but was still confused about an eating plan that would suit her and her lifestyle. Here's what my client said:

"What I love most about Rachel is she is very positive and encouraging. She kept telling me that there is nothing I cannot eat, but just to watch the amounts. Rachel had me keep a diary of the meals I had everyday for a few weeks. InitiallyI did have my doubts and worried about keeping to a diary. But it is not difficult. My family and I even took a holiday to Spain and Singapore in June and I was worried about the foods but it was no problem.

2 weeks ago, I had another blood test for the sugar level and it is now only 4.9, with fasting. Am overjoyed and knew that the plan on the right foods worked. My specialist told me if I stick to this, I will never be diabetic. Anyone can do this.

I highly recommend Rachel Eagleton."

I was overjoyed with my client's results. While weight loss, glowing skin or extra energy might be a measure we can see on the outside I believe it is far more important to invest in your internal health and do everything you can to reduce the risk lifestyle diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Want to know more about designing a way of eating that works for you to manage your goals? Read more here

Are you at risk of developing type 2 diabetes? Take this test and talk to your GP

Read more about insulin resistance and pre-diabetes here: