What is the best herb to replace metformin?
Berberine – Research has shown that 500mg of Berberine taken 2-3 times daily was able to control blood sugar and lipid metabolism as effectively as metformin (4). Berberine These effects are thought to be due to numerous mechanisms. In particular, berberine is believed to reduce glucose production in your liver and improve insulin sensitivity ( 2 ). Studies show that taking berberine can lower blood sugar levels to a similar extent as the popular diabetes drug metformin ( 3 ).If you’re managing your diabetes with lifestyle changes, a doctor may suggest you stop taking metformin. They often measure your current status through an A1C test. You may be in remission or have “reversed type 2 diabetes” if your A1C level is less than 6.It could be that you are not following dietary guidelines, have stopped exercising, or have gained excessive weight. Or, it could be that you’re not taking the drug as prescribed. Whatever the reason, the very first indication that metformin is not working is when your blood glucose levels are high.Metformin is a first-choice medication for managing Type 2 diabetes. But it can sometimes lower your vitamin B12 levels. You can increase the amount of vitamin B12 in your diet to help keep your levels up while taking metformin. But it’s best to avoid taking a B12 supplement unless your prescriber recommends it.
What is a healthier alternative to metformin?
Clinical trials indicate that berberine may be just as effective as metformin for blood sugar control for people with type 2 diabetes. Because it lowers blood sugar, it also lowers HbA1c, the amount of glucose attached to the hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Metformin is safe to take for a long time. It will not make you put on weight, and may even help you lose some weight. It also helps keep your cholesterol at a healthy level. Your doctor will check how well your kidneys work at least once a year.Metformin is an effective medication to treat type-2 diabetes, however, in some cases, the drug may not work, with blood sugar levels remaining high or continuing to increase. This could be caused by a number of reasons, including weight gain, exercise, or a change in diet.Easing off metformin slowly with your provider’s guidance is the safest way to avoid big swings in how you feel. Healthy routines like steady meals, daily movement, and stress management can help you keep weight off once you stop the medication.
What supplements should I avoid with metformin?
Similarly, those who take metformin should also avoid St. John’s wort, as some studies suggest that the supplement causes a build-up of metformin in the body. This build-up causes the body to release more insulin, which may affect glucose levels. Finally, like vitamin E, avoid St. Foods to Avoid While Taking Metformin As with other common diabetes drugs, metformin works best if you avoid: High-fat foods. Refined carbohydrates. Too much alcohol.Metformin may interact with chromium supplements. This mineral is used to support several bodily functions, including boosting the effects of insulin. Taking metformin with chromium supplements can increase your risk of low blood sugar levels.
Which vitamins does metformin deplete?
B12 levels in patients, which may lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. B12 levels increases with higher metformin dose, longer treatment duration, and in patients with risk factors for vitamin B12 deficiency. If metformin and changes to diet and exercise routines are not effective enough, the doctor may increase the dosage of metformin or prescribe additional medications.Two signs that metformin is working are that you’ve seen a reduction in your blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C (your average glucose over the past 2 to 3 months). Nausea and diarrhea are common side effects of metformin, but they usually improve within a few weeks of starting the medication.There are some risks if you decide to stop taking metformin on your own. For example, your blood glucose levels may not be controlled. Over time, this can increase the risk of diabetes complications such as vision problems, nerve damage, and heart disease. Talk to your healthcare provider before stopping metformin.