Metformin has long been prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes, yet recently it is increasingly being recognized as a successful weight loss aid – even for those who aren’t diabetic.
Metformin stands apart from other weight loss medications due to its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose production in the liver, leading to decreased hunger levels and an elevated rate of fat burning.
In this article, we will discuss how metformin could be beneficial for those trying to lose weight, as well as a few potential side effects that individuals should consider before taking it. Furthermore, even non-diabetics may find benefit in utilizing Metformin’s remarkable properties.
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Metformin and Weight Loss
A 1998 study on people with diabetes showed that those taking metformin experienced an average weight loss of up to 8 kg (around 18 lbs) in only 24 weeks due to decreased calorie consumption.
A much larger trial involving over 4,000 individuals with type 2 diabetes further verified these results and found metformin use was linked to a decrease of 2.4 kg (approximately 5.3 lbs) over the course of four years – establishing it as a great way for diabetic patients to safely lose weight and keep it off.
Metformin can have a significant effect on your weight in several ways. For starters, the medication may reduce cravings as it amplifies the body’s reaction to hormones such as insulin and leptin.
By having an increased awareness of these hormones, you are likely to feel satiated sooner and eat less overall. Moreover, since leptin sends signals indicating that one is full; with heightened sensitivity to this hormone comes more control over hunger levels.
Moreover, research points to metformin’s potential in increasing GLP-1 hormone levels. This hormone is known for its ability to suppress hunger and thus can contribute to weight loss.
In fact, the Food & Drug Administration has approved semaglutide (Wegovy) – a medication that specifically targets this particular hormonal receptor – as a therapeutic treatment for obesity as well as type 2 diabetes.
Metformin has been scientifically proven to reduce weight by breaking down visceral fat surrounding our internal organs like the liver, stomach, and intestines, as well as muscles including our hearts. Visceral fat is especially dangerous for us due to its close links with conditions such as heart disease – meaning that Metformin does not just help you achieve your target physique but can also improve your long-term health.
Can People Without Diabetes Take Metformin?
Metformin is a medication that healthcare providers may prescribe to support weight loss in people who are obese and have insulin resistance or prediabetes. Even if you don’t have type 2 diabetes, metformin could still be effective for weight loss when your body’s insulin levels aren’t as powerful.
Keep in mind that not all obesity requires an associated issue with insulin; however, this treatment can benefit those struggling with the condition.
While your medical provider may prescribe metformin with the hope of aiding weight loss, simply relying on this medication is not enough.
To really experience success with losing those extra pounds while taking metformin, you need to ensure that you are incorporating healthy lifestyle behaviors such as eating well and exercising regularly into your life:
- Commit to an invigorating 30-minute workout five days per week for a healthier and happier you.
- Steer clear of sugar-laden beverages to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Proper hydration is essential to maintain good health, and drinking enough water daily can help you achieve that.
- Nourishing your body with a healthy, wholesome diet comprised of unrefined ingredients is key to maintaining optimal health.
Precaution and Risks
Metformin carries an especially stern warning label from the FDA, called a black box warning. In some rare cases, this drug has been known to cause lactic acidosis.
When a surplus of metformin builds up in the body, lactic acidosis is triggered. This condition is an urgent medical situation and can be deadly if it goes untreated.
Symptoms of this condition may include a sudden redness to the skin, sensations of heat on the body, disorientation and dizziness, queasiness, and vomiting, an irregular heart rate as well as muscle soreness.
Metformin can also cause unsafe complications or interactions with the following health conditions:
- Kidney problems or disorders
- Metabolic acidosis
- Before radiology procedures with iodine contrast
- Heart failure
- Before surgical procedures
- Metformin side effects
As the body adjusts to metformin, certain temporary side effects may manifest and including:
- Headache
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Gas
- Bloating
Prolonged use of metformin could lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency or anemia.
What is the Dose for Weight Loss?
Metformin, a medication used to treat diabetes, has not been officially recommended for weight loss purposes. If your doctor prescribes it off-label for you, they will determine an appropriate dose depending on your medical history and needs.
Generally speaking, doses start lower and gradually increase over the course of several weeks – this helps reduce potential side effects associated with taking metformin.
Metformin has various off-label uses, one of the most common being countering antipsychotic drug-induced weight decline.
Depending on your needs and whether you are taking instant or extended-release formulas, doses can range from 500 to 2,000 mg. Research suggests that this dosage is safe and effective for symptom alleviation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Quickly Do You Lose Weight on Metformin?
Taking into account all factors, Metformin can lead to a moderate amount of weight loss for those who take the medicine consistently. It is a popular question: how to lose weight fast on metformin? On average, this amounts to approximately 4-7 pounds per year.
How Much Weight Can You Lose in a Month on Metformin?
In summation, studies have found metformin may result in a potential weight loss of 5-15 pounds.
Can a Non-Diabetic Take Metformin Lose Weight?
Yes, a non-diabetic can take metformin to aid weight loss, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider first as metformin may have potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Metformin for weight loss in non-diabetics is intermittent fasting has recently become a popular lifestyle due to its capability of controlling insulin sensitivity and lowering glucose production. However, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting this regimen.
Does Metformin Reduce Belly Fat?
Metformin treatment resulted in a meaningful decrease of visceral fat mass as compared to the control group, alongside an up-regulation of enzymes associated with burning fat; UCP-1 was found to increase in brown adipose tissue and UCP-3 within skeletal muscle.
What is the Average Weight Loss with Metformin?
The average weight loss with metformin varies and depends on factors such as individual metabolism, diet, and exercise habits, but studies suggest an average weight loss of 1-2 kilograms over a period of several months.
Conclusion. Does Metformin Help With Weight Loss?
To summarize, metformin can be a useful tool for weight loss in individuals with insulin resistance or prediabetes. It is important to note that the results it produces are rather modest and may not work for every person.
Moreover, as metformin has certain side effects and interactions with other medications, its use must be supervised by a healthcare professional.
Metformin is certainly useful, yet cannot be the sole tool for long-term weight loss success. A balanced diet and frequent exercise are still essential components of any successful plan to slim down. Therefore, it is important to think of metformin as a complement rather than an independent solution when attempting to reach your desired health goals.