HOMA Index
Do you want to know whether your body is still sensitive to insulin or is already showing signs of a metabolic disorder? Calculate your HOMA index now with ease!
Note: This value does not indicate the presence or absence of a medical condition (e.g., a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism). Laboratory results can only be interpreted by a doctor in the overall clinical context. We deliberately do not assess them in isolation as “normal” or “abnormal.”
HOMA Index Explained Simply
The HOMA index is a model used to calculate insulin resistance and pancreatic beta-cell function. HOMA stands for Homeostasis Model Assessment. The HOMA index converts fasting glucose and fasting insulin into a single number that can provide insights into glucose metabolism.
What is the HOMA index used for
The HOMA index is used in research and sometimes in clinical practice to estimate insulin resistance and beta-cell function. It provides a simple way to assess the relationship between blood sugar and insulin levels. High values are more likely to indicate insulin resistance, while low values may indicate good insulin sensitivity.
Formula for the HOMA index
Calculating the HOMA index is straightforward.
- If glucose is given in mmol/L, the formula is:
HOMA-IR = (Glucose × Insulin) / 22.5
- If glucose is given in mg/dL, the formula is:
HOMA-IR = (Glucose × Insulin) / 405
In this calculation, glucose refers to fasting blood glucose and insulin refers to fasting insulin in µU/mL.
Interpretation of the values
Reference values can vary depending on the laboratory, study, and population. There are no universally standardized thresholds. However, a HOMA-IR value of approximately 2 to 2.5 or higher is often considered an indication of insulin resistance. Values below this range are more likely to indicate normal insulin sensitivity.
Important: This classification is for guidance purposes only and should not be used for a medical diagnosis.
Advantages of our HOMA index calculator
With our calculator, you can calculate the HOMA index online. Enter your fasting glucose and fasting insulin levels, and you will immediately receive the HOMA-IR value. The calculator supports different units, so you can use either mmol/L or mg/dL.
Important note
The HOMA index is a scientific model, not a diagnostic tool. It is not a substitute for a medical examination. Only a doctor can provide a sound assessment based on your values, medical history, and symptoms.
Do you have any questions?
The most important answers about weight, metabolism, and the metabolism check.
Does the metabolic check measure my HOMA index?
Does the metabolic check measure my HOMA index?
No. Calculating the HOMA index requires fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin; the metabolic check does not measure either of these. It shows your blood lipids, liver, kidney, thyroid, inflammation and vitamin B12, which are also important for weight and metabolism. Your GP’s office can determine the HOMA index.
What does the metabolic check measure?
What does the metabolic check measure?
11 values from a small blood sample that you take at home: blood lipids, liver, kidney, thyroid, inflammation and vitamin B12. Blood sugar, HbA1c and insulin are not included. You receive the report digitally and, if you wish, you can discuss it via video with an independent doctor.
Do I need to have a lab test first?
Do I need to have a lab test first?
No. You can book a video consultation directly. The doctor will determine which lab tests are appropriate—you’ll receive the test kit afterward. If you’d prefer to have a consultation with your results already in hand, start with the metabolic check.
How much does it cost – and will my health insurance cover it?
How much does it cost – and will my health insurance cover it?
The video consultation costs approx. €90–100 per appointment and is billed by your doctor in accordance with the GOÄ; you can see the price of the metabolic check above. If medically recommended, you order follow-up tests in the same way as the initial test. Both are out-of-pocket expenses; some private health insurance providers may reimburse medical services. The costs of medically prescribed measures are not part of our offer.