What is Metformin and how does it work?
Metformin is an oral medication that is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as biguanides, which help lower blood sugar levels by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity in the body.
Weight loss with Metformin is possible and let us show you how it works:
Reduces glucose production: Metformin works by decreasing the amount of glucose that the liver produces and releases into the bloodstream. This helps to lower overall blood sugar levels.
Improves insulin sensitivity: Metformin also helps to improve insulin sensitivity in muscle and fat cells, allowing them to more effectively use glucose for energy. This can also help lower blood sugar levels.
Slows down the absorption of carbohydrates: Metformin can also slow down the absorption of carbohydrates from the intestines, further helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Metformin is usually taken orally, once or twice a day with meals. It is an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes, and it can also be used in combination with other medications. However, it is important to note that metformin is not a cure for diabetes and should be used in combination with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and other treatments recommended by a healthcare provider.
How to lose weight fast on metformin?
Metformin is a prescription drug commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, it has also been found to help with weight loss. This drug works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced and absorbed by the liver, and it has been shown to have a positive impact on weight loss.
Here are some tips to help you lose weight fast on metformin:
1. Combine metformin with a healthy diet:
Eating a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help support weight loss.
Metformin works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. While it is not a weight loss drug, it has been shown to cause modest weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes. To maximize the weight loss benefits of metformin, it is important to pair it with a healthy diet.
The first step in combining metformin with a healthy diet is to eat a balanced diet that is rich in whole foods and low in processed foods. This includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Eating a diet that is rich in fibre and low in sugar can help regulate blood sugar levels and support weight loss.
It is also important to monitor your portion sizes and make sure you are not overeating. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent overeating. Drinking plenty of water and limiting your alcohol consumption can also help with weight loss.
2. Exercise regularly:
Metformin aids in weight loss when combined with exercise. This is because metformin can help reduce insulin resistance, which is a major factor in obesity and weight gain. When insulin resistance is reduced, the body is better able to regulate its use of glucose, leading to improved metabolism and decreased fat storage.
In combination with exercise, metformin can increase the body’s ability to burn fat. Exercise increases the demand for energy in the body, and metformin can help ensure that this energy is derived from stored fat rather than glucose. This helps to reduce the overall amount of body fat, leading to weight loss.
It is important to note that metformin should not be used as a weight loss drug on its own. It is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. A balanced diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting processed foods and added sugars.
Exercise can be any form of physical activity that is enjoyable and sustainable, such as walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, or strength training. It is important to find an exercise regimen that can be easily integrated into a daily routine, as consistency is key for success and also keeps you motivated for weight loss. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
3. Stay hydrated:
Staying hydrated is an important aspect of any weight loss journey, especially when taking metformin as part of your regimen. Dehydration can cause unwanted side effects and impede the effectiveness of metformin in aiding weight loss. Drinking plenty of water can help regulate body functions and prevent water retention, while also aiding in digestion and metabolism.
Additionally, drinking water before and after consuming metformin can help with the absorption of the medication and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort. Incorporating healthy hydration habits, such as drinking water instead of sugary drinks and regularly monitoring fluid intake, can be beneficial for both your health and weight loss goals.
4. Avoid sugary drinks:
Sugary drinks can add extra calories to your diet, which can make it difficult to reach your weight loss goals. When combined with metformin, drinking sugary drinks can also make it harder to control your blood sugar levels, which is important for managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss.
Consuming sugary drinks can also interfere with the absorption of metformin in the body, making it less effective. Additionally, sugary drinks are often high in carbohydrates, which can cause spikes in blood sugar levels and make it harder to manage type 2 diabetes and control your weight.
For these reasons, it is important to avoid sugary drinks when taking metformin for weight loss. Instead, opt for water, unsweetened tea, or sugar-free drinks to help support your weight loss journey and promote overall health and wellness.
5. Limit alcohol consumption:
Alcohol can interfere with weight loss and can also increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.
6. Manage stress:
Stress can interfere with weight loss, so it is important to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or deep breathing.
7. Consider adding supplements:
Certain supplements, such as green tea extract or apple cider vinegar, can help support weight loss.
Is Long-Term Weight Loss Possible on Metformin?
It has been shown to have a modest effect on weight loss in some people with type 2 diabetes and can lead to long-term weight loss in some cases. However, weight loss is not a guaranteed outcome for everyone who takes metformin, and the amount of weight loss can vary greatly from person to person.
Studies have shown that this medicine can lead to a modest reduction in body weight, with an average weight loss of 2-5 pounds over a period of several months. Some people may experience a larger amount of weight loss, while others may see no change in weight or even a small weight gain.
A study published in May 2020 in the journal Diabetes Care, found that when participants increased their metformin dose by 1,000 mg or more, they lost significantly more weight than those who didn’t change their metformin dose or decrease their dose. Emerging research reported in journals including Current Obesity Reports suggests metformin may also lead to weight loss as a result of changes in the appetite centers of the brain, shifts in the gut microbiome, and reversal of metabolic changes that usually happen with age.
The weight loss effect of metformin is thought to be related to its ability to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce glucose production by the liver, and slow down the absorption of carbohydrates from the intestines. By improving the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, metformin may also help reduce cravings and the urge to overeat.
It is important to note that metformin should not be used as a weight loss drug, and it is not a substitute for healthy eating habits and regular physical activity. For best results, it is recommended to combine metformin with a balanced diet and regular exercise, as well as other treatments recommended by a healthcare provider.
If you are taking metformin and concerned about your weight, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best approach to weight loss, based on your individual health status and needs.
Follow up with your doctor: Regular follow-ups with your doctor can help monitor your progress and ensure that you are using metformin safely and effectively.
In conclusion
Metformin is a prescription medication designed to help individuals with insulin resistance manage their blood sugars. Although it can lead to a modest amount of weight reduction, on average, it results in a weight loss of only 4-7 pounds per year. Therefore, it should not be considered as a weight loss drug.
To achieve sustainable weight loss while taking Metformin, it’s important to work with your doctor to develop a balanced diet and exercise plan that fits your unique needs. If you’re interested in taking it specifically for weight loss, speak to your doctor to determine if it’s suitable for you to use “off-label” and the appropriate starting dose.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that once you stop taking it, there’s a chance that your weight loss will plateau or even reverse, making it vital to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine along with taking this drug. If you have concerns about your weight loss progress, consult your doctor for guidance.
