Insulin resistance (IR) is when your body stops responding to insulin and therefore cannot use glucose for energy. You might be more likely to develop insulin resistance if you are overweight or obese, making weight management a smart strategy for preventing this condition that can also lead to diabetes. Diet, exercise, and managing abdominal fat are the first line of defense in management of IR. Through the guidance of a registered dietitian, some individuals may adapt a lower-carbohydrate diet or begin counting carbs. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as opposed to gaining and losing weight on a regular basis, can help prevent IR.