In the United States, nearly one-third of the adult population is obese. Obesity increases the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. Losing weight can help to reduce these risks. However, it can be not easy, but it's vital for maintaining good health.
There are several ways to lose weight fast and effectively, such as weight-loss diets, exercises, weight-loss pills, and supplements. Losing weight requires making healthy choices and being more active. While sometimes, these changes aren't enough, and that's where metformin comes in.
Metformin is a prescription medication often used to help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. However, metformin can also be helpful for weight loss.
This article will discuss how metformin can help you lose weight and some benefits of taking this medication.
What is Metformin?
Metformin is a prescription diabetes medication to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Metformin belongs to a class of diabetes medications called biguanides. It works by decreasing the amount of sugar your liver produces and making it easier for your body to absorb sugar from the food you eat.
The mechanism of action of metformin is not fully understood. It is thought to work by suppressing appetite and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin and decreasing insulin resistance.
Metformin is used with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Metformin does not help patients who have insulin-dependent or type 1 diabetes. It is sometimes used in combination with other diabetes medications, but it is not for treating type 1 diabetes.
Metformin lowers glucose by decreasing hepatic glucose output and reducing glucose absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.
It increases insulin sensitivity and decreases insulin resistance by improving peripheral tissue insulin action and decreasing glucagon secretion from pancreatic A cells. These actions reduce blood glucose levels. Metformin also decreases triglyceride levels and slows the progression of atherosclerosis.
In one study, metformin was found to be as effective as diet and exercise in improving blood sugar levels. Another study showed that metformin could help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese.
Metformin is available in both generic and brand-name versions. The most common brand name for metformin is Glucophage. Metformin is available in tablet and liquid form. It is usually taken one to three times a day with meals.
Metformin is also used off-label for weight reduction, and Off-label means that the FDA has not approved it for this use.
Metformin is usually taken with meals and can be taken with or without food, but it can help reduce the side effects. When you take metformin, your doctor will start you on a low dose and gradually increase it over time.
Metformin and Weight Loss: How Does It Work?
Metformin is a medication that is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, it has also been suggested as a possible weight loss aid in recent years. So how does metformin work?
To understand how metformin promotes weight loss and weight management, it is first necessary to know how it works to treat diabetes.
Metformin works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. In addition, it increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin, which helps keep blood sugar levels under control.
Also, it reduces the absorption of sugar from the gut. As a result, it can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote weight loss.
Recent studies have shown that metformin may also help with weight loss in non-diabetic individuals. It is thought that metformin may cause weight loss by reducing the amount of sugar that is absorbed from the gut, as well as by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin. Additionally, metformin has been shown to decrease appetite and reduce food intake.
Another study found that metformin may promote sustainable weight loss by reducing the production of new fat cells. In this study, metformin decreased the levels of a hormone called resistin. Resistin is a hormone that is involved in the production of new fat cells.
In addition, a new study recently showed that metformin might help protect against weight gain. The study found that metformin treatment was associated with a lower risk of weight gain over five years.
Metformin tablets appear to be a promising treatment for those looking to lose weight. While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, metformin may offer a safe and effective way to help people reach their weight loss goals.
Tips for Taking Metformin for Weight Loss
1. Metformin is most effective when taken with meals. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help to reduce side effects.
2. Your doctor will start you on a low dose of metformin and gradually increase the dose over time.
3. Metformin may cause side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and headache. If you experience any of these side effects, talk to your doctor.
4. Metformin may help you lose weight by reducing the amount of sugar absorbed from the gut and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin.
5. If you are interested in taking metformin for weight loss, talk to your doctor to see if it is right for you.
Foods to Eat and Avoid When Taking Metformin for Weight Loss
When you are taking metformin for weight loss, it is essential to eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet will help to improve your blood sugar control and may also help to reduce the side effects of metformin.
Some foods that you should eat when taking metformin for weight loss include:
1. Fresh fruits and vegetables:
Fruits and vegetables are great sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can help to regulate blood sugar levels and may also help to reduce the side effects of metformin.
2. Whole grains:
Whole grains are a good source of fiber and nutrients. They can help to regulate blood sugar levels and may also help to reduce the side effects of metformin.
3. Lean protein:
Lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and beans are good sources of protein and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
5. Healthy fats:
Healthy fats such as olive oil and avocados can help improve blood sugar control and may also help reduce metformin's side effects.
Some foods that you should avoid when taking metformin for weight loss include:
1. Refined carbohydrates:
Refined carbohydrates such as white bread and pasta can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
2. Saturated and trans fats:
Saturated and trans fats can worsen blood sugar control and should be avoided when taking metformin for weight loss.
3. Sugar-sweetened beverages:
Sugar-sweetened beverages such as soda and fruit juice can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
4. Alcohol:
Alcohol can worsen blood sugar control and should be avoided when taking metformin for weight loss.
If you are taking metformin for weight loss, talk to your doctor or dietitian about the best foods to eat. They can help you create a healthy eating plan that is right for you.
Exercise and Other Lifestyle Changes to Make When Taking Metformin for Weight Loss
In addition to taking metformin for weight loss, making other lifestyle changes is essential. A healthy lifestyle including exercise regularly and healthy eating are two of the most critical lifestyle changes when taking metformin for losing weight rapidly.
1. Exercise regularly:
Exercise can help to improve blood sugar control and may also help to reduce the side effects of metformin. In one study, people who exercised for 30 minutes three times per week had better blood sugar control and fewer side effects than people who did not exercise.
Recently a study showed that people who did not respond to metformin for weight loss had better results when they added exercise to their treatment plan.
2. Healthy eating:
Eating a healthy diet can help to improve blood sugar control and may also help to reduce the side effects of metformin. A study found that people who ate a healthy diet had better blood sugar control and fewer side effects than people who did not eat a healthy diet.
Another study found that people who added a healthy diet to their treatment plan had better results than people who did not change their diet.
3. Stress management:
Managing stress can help to improve blood sugar control and may also help to reduce the side effects of metformin. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help to reduce stress levels.
According to one study, people who added stress management to their treatment plan had better blood sugar control and fewer side effects than people who did not manage their stress.
4. Sleep:
Getting enough sleep can help to improve blood sugar control and may also help to reduce the side effects of metformin. In one study, people who slept for at least 7 hours per night had better blood sugar control and fewer side effects than people who did not sleep enough.
Another study found that people who slept for at least 8 hours per night had better blood sugar control and fewer side effects than people who did not sleep enough.
5. Quit smoking:
Smoking can worsen blood sugar control and should be avoided when taking metformin for weight loss. In one study, people who quit smoking had better blood sugar control and fewer side effects than people who did not quit.
Therefore, if you are taking metformin for weight loss and smoking, it is vital to quit smoking.
If you are taking metformin for weight loss, talk to your doctor or dietitian about other lifestyle changes that you can make. They can help you create a plan that is right for you.
How Long Does It Take for Metformin to Work for Weight Loss?
Metformin usually takes 2-3 weeks to start working for weight loss. In one study, people who took metformin for 3 months lost an average of 5% of their body weight. People who took metformin for 6 months had an average weight loss of 7% of their body weight.
Talk to your doctor if you are not seeing results after 3-6 months of taking metformin for weight loss. They may recommend a different treatment plan.
Can You Take Metformin for losing weight If You're Not Diabetic?
Yes, you can take metformin for weight loss if you do not have diabetes. Metformin is often prescribed to people who are overweight or obese and have not been able to lose weight with healthy habits like diet and exercise.
A study found that people who took metformin for 2 years lost an average of 8% of their body weight. People who did not take metformin gained an average of 2% of their body weight.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you are interested in taking metformin as a weight loss drug. The doctor prescribes metformin only if they think it is safe and effective for you.
Top 15 Health Benefits of Metformin
1. Metformin decreases the glucose level that is produced by the liver
Metformin works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and by, increasing the sensitivity of cells to insulin, and delaying the absorption of glucose from the food you eat.
In one study, metformin was found to be as effective as diet and exercise in improving blood sugar levels. Another study showed that metformin could help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese.
Metformin is usually taken with meals; the starting dose is one or two daily tablets. The dosage may be increased over time as needed.
2. Metformin helps lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels
Metformin is a medication that is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. In addition to helping to control blood sugar levels, metformin has also been found to help lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels.
These effects are thought to be due, at least partly, to the fact that metformin helps reduce the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
When the liver produces less sugar, less sugar is available for the body to convert into triglycerides. In addition, metformin has also been shown to help improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to lower blood pressure.
As a result, metformin can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition more holistically.
3. Metformin reduces the absorption of sugar from the gut
Metformin works by reducing the amount of sugar that is absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream. This, in turn, helps to keep blood sugar levels under control.
In addition to its blood sugar-lowering effects, metformin has also been shown to have other benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
However, metformin can also cause side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort and low blood sugar levels. Therefore, you must talk to your doctor about whether metformin suits you.
4. Metformin increases the body's sensitivity to insulin
Metformin increases the body's sensitivity to insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, metformin can also help prevent the development of diabetes in people at risk for the disease.
In one study, metformin was found to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 31% in people at high risk.
Another study found that metformin may help improve cells' sensitivity to insulin. This is thought to be due, at least partly, to the fact that metformin helps reduce the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
5. Metformin decreases appetite and reduces food intake
Metformin has also been found to help reduce appetite and food intake. In one study, metformin was found to decrease food intake by an average of 6% in people with type 2 diabetes.
Another study found that metformin can help to reduce hunger and promote satiety. This is thought to be due, at least in part, to the fact that metformin helps decrease the amount of sugar absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream.
Decreasing appetite and food intake can help promote weight loss, which can benefit people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight and obese people.
6. Metformin reduces the production of new fat cells
Metformin has also been found to help reduce the production of new fat cells. In one study, metformin decreased the production of new fat cells by an average of 30%.
Another study found that metformin can help reduce the size of existing fat cells. This is thought to be due, at least in part, to the fact that metformin helps decrease the amount of sugar converted into fat by the liver.
Reducing the production of new fat cells can help promote weight loss, which can benefit people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese.
7. Metformin helps to protect against weight gain
One of the advantages of metformin is weight loss. In fact, weight loss is one of the main reasons why people with type 2 diabetes start taking metformin.
Metformin may also help to prevent weight gain and the development of obesity. In one study, metformin was found to avoid weight gain and increase body fat loss in people at risk for obesity.
In one study, metformin was found to be as effective as diet and exercise in preventing the development of obesity in people who were at risk for the disease.
As a result, metformin can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition more holistically.
8. Metformin improves exercise tolerance
Metformin has also been found to help improve exercise tolerance. In one study, metformin was found to increase exercise tolerance by an average of 16%.
In addition, a study found that metformin can help reduce fatigue and improve muscle function. The reason behind these effects is not fully understood. Still, it is thought that metformin helps improve how the body uses and stores sugar.
Improving exercise tolerance can help people with type 2 diabetes get more out of their workouts and better manage their condition.
9. Metformin may improve fertility
Metformin may also help to improve fertility. In one study, metformin was found to increase the chances of getting pregnant by up to 5%.
Another study found that metformin can help improve the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Metformin may also help to improve the quality of eggs. In one study, metformin increased the chances of having a baby with a higher birth weight.
Improving fertility can benefit people with type 2 diabetes who are trying to conceive.
10. Metformin reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke
Metformin has also been found to help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. In one study, metformin was found to reduce the risk of heart disease by an average of 24%.
Recently a study found that metformin can help reduce the risk of stroke by an average of 27%. These findings are thought to be due, at least partly, to the fact that metformin helps improve the way the body uses and stores sugar.
Metformin can help reduce the burden of heart disease and stroke in people with type 2 diabetes.
11. Metformin may improve cognitive function
Metformin has also been found to help improve cognitive function. In one study, metformin was found to improve cognitive function by an average of 9%.
Another study found that metformin can help to improve working memory. The reason behind these effects is not fully understood. Still, it is thought that metformin helps improve how the body uses and stores sugar.
Improving cognitive function can help people with type 2 diabetes better manage their condition.
12. Metformin may help to prevent cancer
Metformin has also been found to help reduce the risk of cancer. In one study, metformin was found to reduce the risk of cancer by an average of 21%.
Another study found that metformin can help reduce the risk of breast cancer by an average of 32%. These findings suggested that metformin may help to prevent the development of cancer.
As a result, metformin can help reduce the burden of cancer in people with type 2 diabetes.
13. Metformin helps to protect against kidney disease
Metformin has also been found to help reduce the risk of kidney disease. In one study, metformin was found to reduce the risk of kidney disease by an average of 32%.
Recently a study found that metformin can help reduce the risk of end-stage kidney disease by an average of 42%.
These findings suggested that metformin can help reduce the burden of kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes.
14. Metformin helps to protect against Alzheimer’s disease
Metformin has also been found to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. In one study, metformin was found to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by an average of 32%.
Another study found that metformin can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline by an average of 39%. The mechanism of action of metformin in this context is not fully understood. Still, it is thought that metformin helps improve the way the body uses and stores sugar.
Reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s can help people with type 2 diabetes better manage their condition.
15. Metformin may help to treat depression
Metformin has also been found to help improve mood. In one study, metformin was found to improve mood by an average of 9%.
Another study found that metformin can help to reduce the symptoms of depression. The reason behind these effects is not fully understood. Still, it is thought that metformin helps improve the way the body uses and stores sugar.
The Risks and Side Effects of Metformin
Metformin is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects of metformin are gastrointestinal and include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. These side effects are usually mild and resolve with time.
More severe side effects of metformin include lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia. Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious condition that can occur when metformin accumulates in the blood. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include abdominal pain, muscle pain, and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, lactic acidosis can be fatal.
Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, sweating, and headache. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can lead to coma or death.
Metformin can also interact with other medications. Therefore, you must talk to your doctor about all your medications before starting metformin.
The Bottom Line
Metformin is one of the most popular medications for treating type 2 diabetes. Metformin can also be used to prevent the development of diabetes in people who are at high risk for the condition.
Metformin also treats other conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and prediabetes.
Suppose you are taking metformin to lose weight. In that case, it is essential to talk to your doctor about the risks and side effects of the medication.
Metformin is generally well-tolerated, but there are some serious side effects that you should be aware of. Metformin can help you lose weight by improving how your body uses and stores sugar.
FAQs
How does metformin help with weight loss?
The mechanism of action of metformin in the context of weight loss is not fully understood. Still, it is thought that metformin helps improve the way the body uses and stores sugar. Reducing the amount of sugar stored in the body can help reduce the amount of fat stored in the body.
Is metformin safe for long-term use?
Metformin is generally considered safe for long-term use. However, there are some serious side effects that you should be aware of. These include lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia. If you experience these side effects, you should immediately stop taking metformin and seek medical help.
Can I take metformin if I have kidney disease?
You should talk to your doctor before taking metformin if you have kidney disease. Metformin can accumulate in the blood of people with kidney disease and cause serious side effects.