Could Metformin Actually Make Insulin Resistance Worse?

Could Metformin Actually Make Insulin Resistance Worse?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, and Insulin Resistance (IR) often occur simultaneously. While the connection between these two conditions is, as of yet, not entirely clear, researchers have determined that IR can lead to PCOS and diabetes.1 Metformin, or Glucophage, is commonly prescribed for both of these disorders, as it is assumed to reduce IR and improve the symptoms associated with it (such as high blood sugar).

Understanding the Fine Print

Although Metformin claims to reduce IR, current labeling laws do not require pharmaceutical companies to reveal how their products achieve results, they simply must accurately represent what kind of results can be expected from their medications.2 This pharmaceutical, in particular, lowers blood sugar using less insulin, which has been taken to mean that it reduces IR.2 This may not be the case.

How Does Metformin Really Work?

Diabetes Update, a blog that reviews diabetes medications and treatment options, has published some interesting findings pertaining to how Metformin actually improves diabetes and PCOS. A study conducted on mice has suggested that the drug lowers blood sugar not by reducing IR, but by activating a gene that does not function properly. This gene, which is located in the liver, stops the production of glucose.2

According to the findings of this study, this pharmaceutical works on a deeper level than simply increasing the sensitivity of the body’s cells to insulin—it actually addresses a genetic issue. While the end result remains the same, blood sugar is lowered; the cells of the body are no more sensitive to insulin than they were before. Although the desired end result is achieved, this doesn’t necessarily heal the body in the same manner as decreasing IR would.

Determining Which PCOS Medicine to Use

Metformin is by far one of the most popular PCOS drugs on the market; however, Metformin side effects are many. Some of these side effects are associated with how the drug actually achieves a lower blood sugar level, which is not completely revealed to the public.2 Before deciding whether or not to use this pharmaceutical, women are encouraged to ask their doctors for more information about its benefits and its potential side effects.

In addition to using medications, women who are fighting PCOS may maintain a healthy blood sugar level by sticking to an IR-friendly diet. Such a diet will incorporate foods that trigger the release of as little insulin as possible. For example, women are encouraged to maintain a meal plan that is high in non-starchy vegetables yet low in fats, sugars, and simple carbohydrates. Additionally, it is suggested that they limit their intake of complex carbohydrates.

The other thing a women suffering Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) might do is to look into the Insulite Health PCOS 5-Element System that is available. In particular, the PCOS System offers hormone-balancing effects that have been scientifically calibrated to reverse the condition. That means there is hope for women who properly educate themselves and take the precautions necessary to thwart the effects of the disease, and no reason why PCOS has to be interpreted as a devastating diagnosis.

Learn more about the subject of Metformin and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and how it could be affecting your ability to get pregnant, visit us on the web at www.pcos.com.


Next Steps

  1. Take the PCOS Quiz!  Get your score and assess your hormone health risks.
  2. Join our Facebook Sisterhood Group Pose your questions to this group of like-minded women. Get the answers to your questions and the support you need.
  3. Checkout the Hormone Reset. Guided Practices to eliminate anxiety, lose weight and boost energy.

We are committed to helping women reverse their symptoms of hormone imbalance – a major cause of excess weight gain, adult acne, unwanted facial hair, depression, anxiety, and heartbreaking female infertility.

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