Which statement best describes insulin resistance?

Insulin resistance is a condition where insulin receptors on target cells become less responsive to insulin that is present in the bloodstream. In this state, even though insulin may be available, the cells do not effectively utilize it to facilitate glucose uptake, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. This mechanism is often observed in conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.

When receptors are not responding properly, the body compensates by producing more insulin, which can further exacerbate the condition and lead to a cycle of increasing insulin production and decreasing receptor sensitivity. Recognizing this diminished responsiveness is key to understanding how insulin resistance develops and how it affects glucose metabolism in the body.