Glucose and insulin laboratory tests reveal how body metabolises sugar, both elevated fasting glucose or insulin levels indicate insulin resistance, this is a condition where the cells do not actually respond well to insulin, resulting in increased amounts of blood sugar levels and fat storage. It’s prevalent among overweight people and can hinder fat loss even after calorie restriction.

Hemoglobin A1c, a measure of average blood glucose over three months, also signifies prediabetes risk. Where these values are elevated, improving insulin sensitivity by diet—consuming low glycemic foods and limiting refined carbohydrates—may increase fat burning effectiveness. Medications enhancing insulin sensitivity can also prove helpful for some under the supervision of a doctor.