Metformin is an oral medication conveniently easier to administer than injectable diabetes drugs. Metformin works by increasing your body’s sensitivity to insulin. It also slows the breakdown of glycogen by the liver, thus lowering blood glucose levels.
You may be advised to start taking the medicine again 48 hours after the exams or tests if your kidney function is tested and found to be normal. Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use. The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine. Diabetes Strong has strict sourcing and citation guidelines, outlined in our Editorial Policy.
If Metformin can control your blood sugar level, why would you choose to control it via diet and exercise? While Metformin is a common medication used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, incorporating healthy lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise can offer additional benefits beyond just controlling blood sugar.
If you have any signs of sickness or diarrhoea then your doctor might be able to prescribe sickness tablets. But it’s also important that you don’t take any sickness or diarrhoea tablets without speaking to someone first. You’ll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox.
The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Your doctor may have you take extra vitamin B12 while you are taking this medicine. Take only the amount of vitamin B12 that your doctor has prescribed. Federal law protects children with diabetes, and schools must make reasonable accommodations to ensure that all children get a proper education. Watch a video of NIDDK Director Dr. Griffin P. Rodgers explaining the importance of participating in clinical trials. Drinking liquids helps prevent dehydration, or the loss of too much water in your body.
Benefits of Controlling Blood Sugar with Diet and Exercise:
- Weight management: Diet and exercise can help individuals maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications.
- Improved insulin sensitivity: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can enhance the body’s response to insulin, allowing for better blood sugar control.
- Overall health: A nutritious diet and regular exercise can improve cardiovascular health, decrease inflammation, and boost overall well-being.
Metformin rarely causes hypoglycemia in people with diabetes who are not also on insulin (or another drug that increases insulin production) because it doesn’t increase insulin production like many other diabetes medications. This means that metformin improves your insulin resistance so that the insulin you produce works better. Insulin resistance is when your insulin doesn’t work properly and can increase your blood sugar levels. Ask your health care provider about your choices and the pros and cons of each. If you have diabetes and need metformin to help lower your blood sugar, its other potential health benefits are a wonderful — not harmful — side effect.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can diet and exercise replace Metformin?
In some cases, individuals may be able to manage their blood sugar levels effectively through diet and exercise alone. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Are there any side effects of Metformin?
Common side effects of Metformin include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and nausea. Some individuals may also experience vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use.
How can I incorporate diet and exercise into my daily routine?
Start by making small changes such as incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet and engaging in regular physical activity such as walking, swimming, or biking. Consult with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist for personalized recommendations.
