HOMA-IR(HOMA-IR)
Definition
Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance, calculated as fasting insulin (μU/mL) multiplied by fasting glucose (mg/dL) divided by 405. A HOMA-IR value below 1.0 indicates normal insulin sensitivity, values between 1.0 and 2.0 suggest early insulin resistance, and values above 2.0 confirm clinically significant insulin resistance. While HOMA-IR requires a blood draw, CGM fasting glucose trends can track whether insulin resistance is improving or worsening over time in response to lifestyle interventions.
Why “HOMA-IR” Matters for Glucose Monitoring
Understanding homa-ir is essential for anyone using or evaluating a continuous glucose monitor. This concept directly affects how CGM devices are designed, how glucose data is interpreted, and how clinical decisions about blood sugar management are made.
This term applies broadly across all continuous glucose monitors and is foundational knowledge for interpreting CGM data, whether you are managing diabetes or using a sensor for metabolic wellness.
Related Terms
A metabolic condition in which the body's cells respond poorly to the hormone insulin, forcing the pancreas to produce progressively larger amounts to maintain normal blood glucose levels.
The blood insulin level measured after 8 to 12 hours without food, reflecting the baseline insulin output needed to maintain glucose homeostasis.
A cluster of 5 interrelated conditions — elevated waist circumference, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high fasting glucose — that together increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by 2x and type 2 diabetes by 5x.