Cardio IQ Insulin Resistance Panel

Advanced wellness

also ir score, nmr-based insulin resistance panel

What it isA composite panel combining fasting insulin, glucose, NMR-derived lipoprotein subfraction patterns, and a derived insulin resistance score. The lipoprotein signature (small dense LDL, low large HDL, elevated large VLDL) reflects metabolic dysfunction independently of standard lipids.

DoesDetects insulin resistance before fasting glucose or HbA1c rise into prediabetic ranges.

GoodA low IR score with healthy lipoprotein subfractions reflects good insulin sensitivity and low cardiometabolic risk.

BadA high IR score predicts progression to type 2 diabetes, fatty liver, and accelerated atherosclerosis years before standard markers move. Pattern can identify early metabolic dysfunction in normal-weight people.

Standard

Algorithmic score with lab-specific reference cutoffs.

Optimal

Low IR score in the lab's reference distribution (lower is good)

Modifiers

Fasting state required; recent illness, intense exercise within 24 hours, and acute stress raise the score.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Zone 2 cardio 3–4 hours weekly, strength training, 7–9 hours sleep, address sleep apnea, stress reduction.
Diet: Cut refined carbohydrates and ultra-processed food; emphasize fiber, whole foods, adequate protein; time-restricted eating in selected people.
Supplements: Berberine 500 mg twice daily, magnesium glycinate 200–400 mg, omega-3 EPA+DHA 2–3 g/day, inositol, chromium.
Peptides: Tirzepatide, semaglutide, MOTS-c for metabolic optimization.
Drugs: Metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists in those meeting clinical criteria. --

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