> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.beoptimal.ca/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.beoptimal.ca/biomarker-panels/focused-longevity-panel/fasting-insulin.md). # Fasting insulin {% hint style="danger" %} This test cannot be completed via a mobile collection service. {% endhint %} **Fasting insulin** levels measure the amount of insulin in your blood after you've fasted for at least 8 hours. These levels are crucial for understanding your body's insulin sensitivity and risk for developing insulin resistance, a condition where your cells become less responsive to insulin. Insulin resistance is associated with aging and can lead to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other age-related disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. Interestingly, epidemiological studies have found that individuals with lower fasting insulin levels and higher insulin sensitivity, such as centenarians, often exhibit increased longevity. This suggests that maintaining lower fasting insulin levels through lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, and possibly intermittent fasting could support healthier aging and extend lifespan. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.beoptimal.ca/biomarker-panels/focused-longevity-panel/fasting-insulin.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.