What is Metformin?
The biguanide pharmacological class includes the oral diabetes medication metformin. It is the first-line medication of preference for treating type 2 diabetes, especially in overweight and obese patients as well as those with normal renal function. Due to safety concerns, its use in gestational diabetes has been restricted. It has also been researched for other illnesses where insulin resistance may play a significant role. It is also used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome. By inhibiting the liver’s ability to produce glucose, metformin works. The only anti-diabetic medication that has been conclusively demonstrated to protect against the cardiovascular consequences of diabetes is metformin. It has no weight gain implications, and it lowers triglyceride levels and LDL cholesterol levels.
The effects of metformin on the body:
☞ The drug metformin aids in regulating the body’s blood sugar levels. It is used to treat polycystic ovarian syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
☞ Metformin inhibits the liver’s ability to produce as much glucose. The amount of glucose that the liver secretes into the body is what we don’t know. As a result, it lowers type 2 blood sugar levels. Additionally, metformin improves insulin sensitivity, which permits your body to absorb more glucose. This medication is offered as a tablet or an oral solution.
☞ An oral medication called metformin is used to regulate and maintain blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular illnesses are among the disorders that are treated with this medication. the polycystic ovary syndrome and hypertension. Diabetes can cause renal failure, obesity, and cardiac issues if it is not properly managed. As a result, Metformin aids in managing your diabetes and blood sugar levels.
☞ Both tablets and oral solutions of metformin are available. According to your age, condition, severity, and any drugs you are presently taking, the doctor will recommend a dose for your treatment. You must continue this medication as prescribed and not miss a dosage.
Metformin side effects seem to be serious
Metformin may produce certain undesirable consequences in addition to its necessary ones. Even though not all of these side effects are likely to occur, if they do, medical treatment may be required.
Foods to stay away from when taking metformin:
The six foods listed below should be avoided when taking metformin.
Fats
If you’re taking metformin, healthy fats are good and should be a part of your diet. When using metformin, you should, however, stay away from foods high in trans and saturated fats.
Sodium
If you are using metformin, you should limit your sodium intake. Limit your daily salt consumption to 2300 mg.
Simple and refined carbs
Blood sugar levels are raised by simple and processed carbohydrates. Avoid simple carbohydrates like soda, candy, and sweets. Avoid processed carbohydrates like white bread, spaghetti, and rice.
High-fiber foods
Certain medications can be absorbed by fiber, which lowers their bloodstream levels. Your metformin levels may fall if you consume a lot of fiber. Limit your daily fiber consumption to 30 grams.
Alcohol
Large amounts of alcohol should be avoided as they raise the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar. Alcohol hinders the liver’s ability to store and release glucose.
Low blood sugar levels might result from consuming alcohol on an empty stomach. For those who use insulin or other diabetes drugs that raise insulin levels, this is much more true.
Drinking in moderation is generally safe. One drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men is considered safe limits. Talk to your doctor about this because it’s possible that giving up alcohol would be the best decision for you personally.
Grapefruit
The effects of grapefruit on Metformin were investigated in one study. Researchers discovered that participants who had grapefruit juice in addition to metformin produced more lactic acid than participants who only consumed metformin. They may also put on more weight.
It was also proven that grapefruit juice made metformin accumulate more quickly in the liver. This led to a rise in the generation of lactic acid. The investigations also revealed that people taking Metformin who drink grapefruit juice may be at an increased risk of developing lactic acidosis.
Foods to include in your metformin diet:
Below are five foods you should include in your metformin diet.
√ Complex carbohydrates
Vegetables, fruits, and whole grains like brown rice and whole-grain bread are sources of complex carbs. These carbohydrates have greater fiber. As a result, the body has a harder time metabolizing them. As a result, the bloodstream’s absorption of glucose is slowed. Watch your total carb consumption if you’re ingesting complex carbohydrates. This is significant since blood sugar levels are directly impacted by carbs.
√ Non Starchy vegetables
Non Starchy foods can aid in slowing the metabolism of carbohydrates. Broccoli and leafy greens are two examples of non starchy vegetables.
√ Healthy fats
Healthy fats can be obtained from foods including fish, almonds, and olive oil.
√Moderate fiber intake
Although consuming a lot of fiber is not advised, consuming moderate amounts can be beneficial. This is because fiber can aid with blood sugar regulation. Between 25 and 30 grams of fiber are typically consumed each day.
√Healthy protein
Encourage people to eat lean proteins like tofu, salmon, and turkey.
Jannatul Kawser Riktha
Intern, Content Writing Department.
Youth School For Social Entrepreneurs (YSSE)