HOMA-IR Calculator

Category: Diabetes
- April 07, 2025
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HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is a method for assessing insulin resistance and beta-cell function from fasting glucose and insulin levels.

HOMA-IR Calculator

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About HOMA-IR

The Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is a mathematical model used to estimate insulin resistance and beta-cell function from fasting glucose and insulin levels. It was developed by Dr. David Matthews and colleagues in 1985.

Interpretation of HOMA-IR Values
  • Less than 1.0: Normal insulin sensitivity
  • 1.0 to 1.9: Early insulin resistance
  • 2.0 to 2.9: Moderate insulin resistance
  • 3.0 or greater: Severe insulin resistance

Note: Reference ranges may vary slightly between different populations and laboratories.

HOMA-β (Beta Cell Function)

HOMA-β estimates pancreatic beta-cell function, expressed as a percentage of normal. It is calculated as:

HOMA-β = (20 × Insulin) ÷ (Glucose - 3.5)

Generally, healthy individuals have HOMA-β values ranging from 70-150%.

QUICKI (Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index)

QUICKI is another method for assessing insulin sensitivity, calculated as:

QUICKI = 1 ÷ (log(Insulin) + log(Glucose))

Higher QUICKI values indicate better insulin sensitivity:

  • 0.45 or higher: Normal insulin sensitivity
  • 0.30 to 0.44: Reduced insulin sensitivity
  • Below 0.30: Significant insulin resistance
Important Considerations
  • HOMA-IR is a surrogate marker and not a direct measurement of insulin resistance.
  • Blood samples should be collected after an overnight fast (8-12 hours).
  • Results should be interpreted in the context of clinical findings and other laboratory tests.
  • Medications, stress, illness, and other factors can affect insulin and glucose levels.
  • The gold standard for measuring insulin resistance is the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp technique, but it's complex and invasive.
HOMA-IR Formula:
HOMA-IR = (Fasting Glucose × Fasting Insulin) ÷ 22.5
Note: Glucose in mmol/L and Insulin in μIU/mL. If using mg/dL, divide glucose by 18 to convert.

What is the HOMA-IR Calculator?

The HOMA-IR Calculator is a simple, online tool that helps estimate insulin resistance using your fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels. This score, called the HOMA-IR index, gives insight into how well your body responds to insulin — a hormone that regulates blood sugar.

Insulin resistance can play a major role in conditions like type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). By using this calculator, you can quickly check if your body might be having trouble managing blood sugar effectively.

How to Use the Calculator

  • Enter your fasting glucose value and select the correct unit (mg/dL or mmol/L).
  • Enter your fasting insulin value and select the correct unit (μIU/mL or pmol/L).
  • Optionally, choose how many decimal places you want your results to display.
  • You can choose whether to show the formula and step-by-step breakdown of the calculations.
  • Click “Calculate HOMA-IR” to see your results.

The tool will display your HOMA-IR value, HOMA-β (a measure of beta-cell function), and the QUICKI index (another insulin sensitivity metric).

Understanding Your Results

The calculator provides three key outputs:

  • HOMA-IR: This is your insulin resistance score. Lower values usually indicate better insulin sensitivity.
  • HOMA-β: This estimates how well your pancreatic beta cells are functioning.
  • QUICKI: A supportive measurement that also reflects insulin sensitivity — higher values are better.

A HOMA-IR value:

  • Below 1.0 suggests normal insulin sensitivity.
  • Between 1.0–1.9 could indicate early insulin resistance.
  • Between 2.0–2.9 suggests moderate insulin resistance.
  • 3.0 or higher points to severe insulin resistance.

Why Use This Tool?

The HOMA-IR Calculator is helpful for those monitoring their metabolic health, managing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, or working with a healthcare provider to track insulin resistance. It's also useful alongside other tools like:

  • A1C Calculator: A blood sugar estimator that tracks long-term glucose control.
  • eAG to A1C Conversion Tools: Convert your average glucose levels into A1C for easier interpretation.
  • QUICKI Index Tools: Additional check on insulin sensitivity for a broader understanding.
  • Insulin Dosage Calculators: Estimate or adjust insulin needs based on glucose levels and sensitivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the HOMA-IR index used for?

It’s used to estimate how resistant your body is to insulin. High values may suggest that your body is having difficulty using insulin effectively.

Can this calculator diagnose diabetes?

No. This tool is meant for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose any condition. Always consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Is this the same as an A1C test?

No. A1C reflects average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months. HOMA-IR focuses on insulin sensitivity based on fasting values. For a complete picture, both are helpful.

What units should I use?

The calculator accepts both mg/dL and mmol/L for glucose, and μIU/mL or pmol/L for insulin. Make sure the values match the unit selected to get accurate results.

How often should I check HOMA-IR?

This depends on your health goals and recommendations from your healthcare provider. It's typically used alongside other markers during routine blood work.

Final Thoughts

The HOMA-IR Calculator is a fast and accessible way to check your insulin sensitivity. Whether you're monitoring for signs of insulin resistance, using it alongside a blood sugar estimator or A1C levels tool, or just aiming for better glycemic control, it can offer valuable insights. Combine it with other resources like a diabetes risk calculator or glycemic index tool for a more complete look at your metabolic health.