HOMA-IR Calculator
Assess your insulin resistance using the Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). This validated formula uses fasting glucose and fasting insulin to estimate how well your body responds to insulin.
HOMA-IR Interpretation Reference
| HOMA-IR | Interpretation | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| < 1.0 | Optimal insulin sensitivity | Excellent insulin sensitivity |
| 1.0 – 1.9 | Normal | Normal insulin sensitivity |
| 2.0 – 2.9 | Early insulin resistance | Early signs of insulin resistance |
| ≥ 3.0 | Significant insulin resistance | Significant insulin resistance — consult your doctor |
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes only. HOMA-IR should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your full clinical picture. Do not use this result to self-diagnose or change medications.
Glucoly – Blood Sugar Tracker
Monitor the metrics that drive insulin resistance
Log fasting glucose, weight, and daily readings in Glucoly — spot patterns before they become problems.
What Is HOMA-IR?
HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is a mathematical formula developed in 1985 to quantify insulin resistance and beta-cell function from fasting blood samples alone. The formula is: HOMA-IR = (Fasting Glucose [mmol/L] × Fasting Insulin [μIU/mL]) / 22.5. A higher HOMA-IR score indicates greater insulin resistance.
How to Interpret Your HOMA-IR Score
Published cut-offs vary by population and laboratory method, but general guidance from peer-reviewed research suggests:
- Below 1.0: Optimal insulin sensitivity — cells respond well to insulin.
- 1.0–1.9: Normal range for most healthy adults.
- 2.0–2.9: Early insulin resistance — lifestyle interventions (diet, exercise) may be beneficial.
- 3.0 and above: Significant insulin resistance — associated with metabolic syndrome, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes risk. Discuss with your healthcare provider.
Clinical Use of HOMA-IR
HOMA-IR is widely used in research and clinical practice as a cost-effective surrogate marker for insulin resistance. It requires only a fasting blood sample, making it practical compared to more complex measures such as the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp. Clinicians use HOMA-IR to identify patients at risk for type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and cardiovascular disease, as well as to monitor the effect of lifestyle and pharmacological interventions.
Sources
- Matthews DR, et al. Homeostasis model assessment: insulin resistance and beta-cell function from fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations in man. Diabetologia. 1985;28(7):412-419.
- Stern SE, et al. Identification of individuals with insulin resistance using routine clinical measurements. Diabetes. 2005;54(2):333-339.
- Gayoso-Diz P, et al. Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) cut-off values and the metabolic syndrome in a general adult population. Eur J Clin Invest. 2013;43(10):1046-1052.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. HOMA-IR should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your full clinical history. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment.