SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) is a carrier protein for testosterone and estradiol. A large body of observational evidence links low SHBG levels to insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Thus, SHBG can serve as a useful indirect biomarker for blood sugar regulation and metabolic health. However, it is not a direct measure of blood glucose. SHBG levels are influenced by multiple factors including liver function, thyroid status, obesity, diet, and genetic variants (e.g., in the SHBG gene). The evidence is primarily from cohort studies and meta-analyses; robust interventional trials demonstrating causality or clinical utility are lacking. Therefore, SHBG should be interpreted alongside fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin. While measuring SHBG may add value in a comprehensive metabolic risk assessment, it does not replace standard diabetes screening or medical evaluation.
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