MetabolicUpdated 2025-12-24Medically Reviewed
HOMA-IR (Insulin Resistance Score)
Everything you need to know about HOMA-IR (Insulin Resistance Score) levels, including what normal ranges look like and what abnormal results might indicate.
Standard Reference Range
Unit: calculatedMale Reference Range
<1.0 optimal calculated
Female Reference Range
<1.0 optimal calculated
i
Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Always consult your doctor for interpretation.
What is HOMA-IR?
HOMA-IR estimates insulin resistance using fasting glucose and fasting insulin:
HOMA-IR = (fasting glucose mmol/L × fasting insulin µIU/mL) / 22.5
Quick targets
Optimal ＜1.0; ＞2.0 suggests insulin resistance; ＞3.5 is high risk—consider clinical review.
Why it matters
- Flags metabolic risk earlier than HbA1c
- Predicts triglyceride/HDL pattern B (small dense LDL)
- Guides intervention intensity and follow-up cadence
How to use the score
- ＜1.0: maintain; recheck in 6–12 months if risk factors change
- 1.0–2.0: tighten nutrition (lower refined carbs), add strength + Zone2, recheck 3–6 months
- ＞2.0: structured lifestyle block 8–12 weeks; discuss meds (metformin/GLP-1/SGLT2) with clinician
Common pitfalls
- Non-fasting samples or recent heavy exercise skew insulin
- Acute illness, corticosteroids, or high stress can transiently elevate glucose/insulin
Next steps
- Pair with Triglycerides and HDL to see lipid impact
- Track HRV and sleep; poor recovery often parallels insulin resistance
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