Should You Take Metformin?

[@markfischer965]

I was recently diagnosis with diabetes. Trying to get this figured out. Dr. Jason Fung believes that the cells are overfilled with glucose. The cells cannot hold more glucose and thus they are insulin resistant. Dr. Boz said that the cells do not have glucose and are starving. One of the supporting factors for Dr. Fung's position is that insulin resistance leads to weight gain. This is due to the excess glucose in cells being converted to fat. If the cells were lacking glucose, than fat would not be made, and the diabetic would be thin. Who is correct?

[@DoctorBoz]

We both are. The scenarios are both correct … but at different stages of insulin resistance. The trend I see =people asking for metformin when they DO NOT have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Essentially- there is a reason for the doctor-patient relationship. You tube attempts to educate folks … context is everywhere- right?!?

[@markfischer965]

@@DoctorBoz Wow, a celebrity responds to my comment. Sincerely, thank you. I will tell you my story to prove no good deed goes unpunished. I am 60 years old. I have a degree in biochemistry, but have never used it. I have worked in finance my whole career. Just mentioned it, because as I researched diabetes, it brought back memories of the Kreb cycle, insulin and other hormones. It made it easier to understand the discussions. However, as they say, a little knowledge is a dangerous thing. I am 5'9" and until I was 30, i weighed between 185 and 200. Regardless of BMI charts, at 185 I was thin. Over the next 30 years, I gained weight and peaked around 260. Until I reached 55, I could run 5 miles. After 55, my endurance decreased and I blamed age. Before my diabetes trip to the ER, I couldn't jog a half a mile. In 2021, I was in the hospital for 5 days with COVID. I was also diagnosed with diabetes and high blood pressure. They prescribed insulin. I ignored the recommendation and did not fill the prescription. 40 days ago, I had severe vertigo and could not stand without holding something. Called 911. The EMTs measured my blood glucose, it was 450. Spent 2 days in the hospital. IV insulin for the first day, shots on the second day. The endocrinologist, just asked questions. He did not explain diabetes, glucose levels, etc. I was discharged from the hospital with blood sugar in the 250 range. I had blurry vision and was still foggy. Dutifully, I filled the insulin prescription. I started to do research. First, I found Dr. Fung. His position made sense to me. Then, Dr. Ekberg. He also made sense. With the insulin, blood sugar was still north of 200. After 2 days of taking insulin, I decided to stop taking it and go low carb(less than 20 gr/day, and intermittent fasting. I stopped the insulin, because it was not working and I agree with Dr. Fung's position that too much insulin is the cause of the problem. I choose to eat one meal a day, or 2 when I came off my extended fasts. I fasted on Wednesdays and Saturdays. I choose these days due to Sabantine privilege associated with wearing the scapular of Our Lady. These fasts are about 41 hours. My average blood glucose levels fell from 230 to 160 over 3 weeks. I was a little diasappointed. I was hoping that my glucose levels would fall faster. However, in hind sight, after 40 years of living on sweets and ice cream, I did not appreciate how insulin resistant I was. This is when I found your videos. My route obviously was not according to your continuum. That being said, I did not have problem fasting. I seldom ate breakfast. In addition, I was determined not to relive the DKA, so I had a strong mindset to do what I thought would prevent it. Truthfully, I did not experience strong hunger pains. After watching many of your videos, I found your sardine challenge. After accepting and dong it, in three days my average blood sugar fell from 160 to 130. I also started measure ketones in my urine. They have consistently measured between 1.5 and 4. Over the past five days, my morning blood sugars have been 118, 113, 92, 111, and 112. Still have a way to go, but I think the results prove I am on the right track. I think I will do another sardine fast. I hike about 45-90 minutes a day with my chocolate lab. Started doing pushups a few days ago. Started taking saunas 5 days ago. I am very grateful for the work you have done along with Dr. Fung, Dr. Ekberg, Dr. Berry, et. al. I appreciate your comment about the doctor-patient relationship. However, I have lost much respect for most doctors. My treatment experience with diabetes and an acoustic neuroma and my observation of Drs. rolling over like opossums during COVID, I view them on the same level as lawyers. Again, thank you.

[@markfischer965]

Forgot to comment on my weight. I was 215 when I went into the hospital. Now I am between 200 and 205,.

[@markfischer965]

Had a Zoom follow up with the endocrinologist that treated me. I told him that based on my research, I stopped taking insulin, went with less than 20 carbs a day and fasted. Told him that my blood sugar was 81 yesterday morning. You think he might be interested in how I achieved the improvement. Nope, he told me that the ketones in my blood was bad. I was starving myself. I needed to eat at least 30 carbs per meal. I pushed back with my understanding of the chemistry and physiology. What disturbs me is his unwillingness or inability to be curious about the unarguable results. In 5 weeks, my morning blood sugar dropped from 250 to 81, without drugs. My A1C was 11.6. A true scientist would be interested, especially since the empirical results contradict his theories. Instead, he referred me to a dietician. I responded, I would consider it, but if they recommend increasing my carbs, I would not do it.

[@nikibreska]

I’m pretty sure that fat cells are the last to become insulin resistant?

[@timmjackson]

Dropped my A1c from 12.1 to 6.1 in three months, using diet alone. Added exercise and dropped it subsequently to mid 5s. No metformin. No exogenous insulin.

[@DoctorBoz]

You win!! So impressive

[@davidbarry9690]

Me too, there's no need for meds

[@Momtocam1997]

Took Metformin for 10 months…fasting numbers were still elevated..I went on keto and the rest is history…from mid 2021 to current time, I’ve dropped three dress sizes…haven’t lost all the weight, but it’s a process for me. I don’t eat after 6 pm. Also take a B multi vitamin in am and late afternoon..seems to help as well with fasting number. My levels level off considerably within 2 hours upon wake up. I’m curious if our blood type has anything to do with this process? I am 0-

[@mindingmybusiness6309]

👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@julieterrell8496]

Dr. BOZ: My husband and I ❤ your videos! Thank God for all of your info you provide. My A1C is 9.7! So, So, I've just restarted this Keto and I.F. WOE, and my Dr. has understandably put me on meds for my high A1C QUESTION: Is it OK to temporarily take Trulicity and Metformin if I'm doing a combo of Keto and 48-hr/72-hour fasts?

[@NancyDunton-hb9ir]

Me,too. 15 years ago my 'doctor' tried to convince me to do the same. I had other conditions. Being gas lighter when I had already been a victim of that abuse Nd more in my private life, I refused. My glucose had never been over 120. For the last 10 years it never go above 110 over and extended amount of time, yet just last year with my levels being at 106 and lower, below 100. . He placed a diagnosis in my records as a full blow diabetic. Pre diabetes is between 106 and 120 levels . I confronted him about it. He said diabetic levels started at 100. I haven't been back to him. He retired after I stopped seeing him. I am on no meds by 18 months, yet I feel better than I have in years. The last blood test he ran , I had NO RED FLAGS to be concerned about. Who was wrong and who was right, huh? I'm thru being treated like a Dollar sign for GREED.

[@NancyDunton-hb9ir]

You need to read up on the what it is actually helping to make you diabetes worse as well as the so called carbs they say you can eat , but our also contributing to making Diabetes worse, helping to raise your glucose reading For worse.. I watched my second husband believe the lies til his death of said disorder. Blessings on your journey

[@RandyFricke]

I'm doing it with low carb diet, walking AFTER I eat, and several vitamin supplements. I was originally diagnosed at 10.4 and got down to 7. Then it went up a little and I know why. Snacking. You have to stop snacking. I'm doing a 22/2 intermittent fast. One meal a day. 8oz vegetables and 6 oz meat of some sort. That's it. I've lost 10 pounds and I know that as long as my weight goes down my A1C will follow.

[@Joy80JJ]

I was pre-diabetic 3 yrs ago 6.8 A1C went to 5.1 in less than 6 mnths using keto...then low carb...also took Berberine 500 MG & drink cinnamon tea everyday...as of last wk A1C 5.0. I do eat higher protein now & lowered my fat just a little...I feel great & have maintained an 80lb fat loss for 3 ys.

[@infini_ryu9461]

"went to 5.1 in less than 6 mnths using keto" Well there's your answer. If she wanted to help Moria she should tell her to stop pouring carbs down her neck several times a day, every day. Moria weighed the side effects of taking drugs and decided against doing so when her doctor can't give her the proper answer that anybody can glean by understanding human biochemistry properly. Good on her. The body is doing what it's supposed to do given the unnatural state people are putting it in.

[@aldo-228]

6.8 isn't pre-diabetic

[@nadiadv22]

@@aldo-228 Then what is it?

[@terryh1811]

@@nadiadv22 6.8 is diabetic

[@alexg1668]

Hi thanks I’ve been on Metformin for 11 years and wasn’t quite sure how it worked. The graphics could be better. 😀

[@CariUnderwood]

I’m one of the rare people with a bad bad reaction to metformin. Lived in misery for 6+ months before I realized it was metformin damaging my eyes. Never again. Having good success lowering my A1c with Carnivore diet.

[@ray99931]

Worse pharmaceutical drug on the planet 👍

[@valerieg9494]

My friend got.kidney cancer from.Metformin.

[@jimw7916]

I never had to wear glasses untill I started on metformin

[@shielalatterell9947]

I had abdominal pain like had the worst stomach bug on metformin and has a hard time convincing my Dr to pull me of of it. May quality of life was not good even though my tests looked good. Choice of diet and excercise weren't really discussed. I am on insulin but diet and excercise is working. Also having a CGM helps with knowing when I should eat

[@CarnivoreDiet101]

I've started Carnivore diet two weeks ago.. my a1c was 7.9 now dropping to low 7. I'm giving myself 3 months for my body to adopt to fat burning instead of carb/sugar burning. I'm 68 and I've been a diabetic for decades, the whole time I've been trying to reverse it with eating healthy (US standard diet) and excercise, no luck. I refused to take Metformin. I'm hopeful with the new diet.. it's my last hope. Also, Stelo cgm has been super helpful! Wish you well and all the best!

[@edgaracevedo9658]

Great explanation and advise. I've been taking 500MG of metformin once a day for years. My A1C was stable around 6.8 and then over the years it started to go up. Next thing you know I was 7.2, 7.6 and 8.0. My doctor asked that I double up on the metformin to twice a day. I wanted to try diet. So I went on a strict low car diet average 30 grams of carb a day. Although i saw improvements in my fasting blood sugar, my A1C went from 8 to 7.6 in 3 months and then to 7.3 in another 3 months. I guess I'm very insulin resistant and need to combine meds with the diet I'm on. If I do occasionally eat a starch like rice or bread, my glucose rises to 200-225 and it stays elevated for hours. Probably takes 5 hours to come back down to 160-170. On low carb it averages 130.

[@RealArtVandelay]

gotta be carefulk with low carb cause its not really sustainable. and realistic, think "will i still be eating like that 5 years from now" ?. you will have insane cravings that will worsen your blood sugar and then might be tempted to give up. just find a sustainable lifestyle that includes intense aerobic exercise. My A1C was 8.3 after I had an intense period of stress and was eating a lot of crap... I eventually nprmalised it after 6 mponths, wasnt easy, but now 7.3 and going down. Keep it up

[@ck-mystic]

Hello. I do like your approach to the problem. I am using Metformin for 10 years now and I am not "amused" with the results. Do you have an example of your low carb diet? showing breakfast? meals?

[@edgaracevedo9658]

@ck-mystic I was not able to sustain a low carb diet. It gets boring after a while especially breakfast. I basically ate scrambled eggs with spinach or a ham, cheese Spinach omlette, salads and protein for lunch & dinner. My A1C is now 6.4 but my doctor has me on Ozempic which allows me to have some whole grain.

[@Gnosis31528]

Try Trulicity.

[@LarryWhite-kw5mj]

Been on metformin 1000mg daily for 10 years,sometimes take 500 if its messing up my digestion.

[@Rosedara]

I currently take metformin and have an A1C of 5.9. I have tried to do everything the natural way and have tried every diet except keto and intermittent fasting which I have just recently started. The main reason why I absolutely advocate for metformin for people with high level food addiction, is it genuinely removes your obsession for food not acting as an appetite suppressant but it actually works in your brain to reduce your your desire for food. The only way I have been able to start keto at all is because I have been taking the metformin and I have much more control around food. Anytime. I have tried to diet in the past without the metformin. I quickly fail and then regain all the way plus more because I'm so food obsessed.

[@ashleynrota89]

I wish that were the case for me. I take 2000m a day and still think about eating 24/7

[@cherisemelf4758]

@rosedara, You are the first to confirm what Ive been saying the last 2 1/2 yrs. In less than 2yrs, I went from 232 down to 112. I have never been this successful in my life of losing and gaining. I lost over 100lbs 7xs as an adult. The weight always came back. Its staying gone this time, and I do eat everything! I do not eat all day long either. That alone is a huge blessing for me. It wasnt instantly either. I learned real fast stay away from nonsense carbs, dont skip meals, and DONT GO BACK FOR SECONDS!! I went from a size 22 to a 4. Im going to be 60 next month, and I have myself a knock-out dress! We going out on that day! I dont care where we go, but it better be fancy. (baaaaaaaaaaaa) My husband already knows, and he told me, I cant wait to see you walk in those heels. We both laughed about that one. He knows Im clumsy, but I dont care!! Many Blessings To All of You

[@TURTLEORIGINAL]

@@ashleynrota89praying for you! ❤

[@Honey_1012]

I was pre diabetic and found out i had insulin resistance. After 2 years of strict keto eating and taking metformin i lost weight and kept it off and reversed my insulin resistance. I also worked out 5 days a week and ate zero to low carbs. Medication such as metformin should only be used temporarily i 100% believe it starts with eating and being active.

[@intellybit]

You no longer need performing ? Even if you cheat once in a blue moon?

[@jwgibbs44]

@@Honey_1012 thanks for sharing. I’ve also gone low carb/ high fibre/ high protein diet. I’ve been able to change my palate to like more savory foods so I’m not missing carbs. I was stunned by how easily I lost weight. I’m also experimenting with apple cider vinegar and berberine as well. My Ac1 has gone down but I guess I wanted better results sooner so it reassuring to hear you stayed at t for two yrs to get where u want. It’s been seven mths for me since prediabetic diagnosis

[@foxmd9410]

Metformin wasn't working for me, my doctor told me to max out at 2000mg per day and see what happens. Within two month it made me quite ill. I pretty much kept going from the bed to the couch for a month, I had no energy, light headed, muscle strains. I went on keto and within three days I was off metformin and off my blood pressure tablets. Morning sugar is now 6.0 it was 9.0, now 30 days into keto almost back to 100% health, blood pressure is perfect 130/80. My doctor is so pissed because now she can't prescribe me any more drugs!

[@Fomites]

I suspect you are making up the part about your doctor being annoyed because she wants to prescribe more drugs. We would much rather patients address their maladies by lifestyle change if at all possible - but most people cannot, will not or can only achieve partial change. Our professional objective is not to prescribe meds but to help patients get better health by whichever means. But if we don't prescribe in some cases the patient mostly will deteriorate into even more ill health.

[@foxmd9410]

@@Fomites I understand where you are coming from, most doctors do the right thing. My comment was tongue in cheek but I seem to have struck a nerve. The reality is it's BIG business for all concerned. We are all starting to wake up to the way food companies are making us sick with processed food, it's full of sugar which is the major cause of most illnesses today. They are making billions from addictive cheap processed foods. You have the medical industry making billions treating these sick people and big Pharma making billions providing drugs. It's a massive Ponzi scheme. If you truly care you would call out the corruption.....

[@robinham2796]

Nope, doctors get $ for prescribing drugs…. Not all but MANY

[@jimw7916]

​@@Fomiteswe DON'T make up things. Doctors make up lots of things

[@MarissahXoxo]

I did keto and almost died of vitamin and mineral deficiency

[@annettecostello6501]

Thank you for explaining. I’m taking Metformin, and trying to get back into ketosis. I fell off the wagon, getting back on is more challenging than when I first started keto.

[@alicefaye4579]

My doctor put me on Metformin…. I used it for it for 7 months and the gastric side effects were HORRIBLE! I couldn’t live a normal life, so I quit in November 2022. I had been lowering my A1C prior to Metformin by simply changing my diet. Shortly afterwards, I discovered your videos about the ketogenic diet (best explanation I had ever seen.) Metformin may help some people, but some of us cannot tolerate it. I’ve lowered my A1c from 10.2 to 5.9

[@TURTLEORIGINAL]

Incredible! Glad you were able to lower it!❤

[@annspires8380]

Metformin tore up my stomach and caused a lot of gastro pain. When I finally stopped taking it I felt better. Jardiance did the same thing.

[@eberhoozen]

How long did you take jardience? I just started keto and jardience.

[@StopSmelltheRoses]

I've been on Metformin for a month due to prediabetes, insulin resistance, obesity..etc and I feel so much better. More energy and I've lost edema. I honestly think I needed it a long time ago. (and no side effects ) Extended release.

[@MuscleMindConnect]

Wow! Never seen it explained like this before! This was an insightful and very helpful video, thank you! I was on Metformin for a few years, having med checks every 3 months and blood work every 6 months and when I hit two years straight of my numbers staying “in the good” my doctor took me off Metformin. I go back in August to test my bloodwork to see if Im still good to continue without medication!

[@hellokdonn]

My son was pre-diabetic, ate the way Dr. Boz suggests while using Metformin to retrain his cells the way she explains here. Metformin can be a short term tool to retrain the cells while modifying your diet so that when you get off of it you are eating in a way to support those new cells and the new beautiful A1c level. Dr. Boz has very balanced approaches and my son is no longer pre diabetic and doing well. He now takes the chromium etc and other supplements to support his new cells and protect his progress. 🙏🏻 thank you, Dr. Boz

[@DoctorBoz]

That’s a mother’s gift. Good job for encouraging him and exampling to him.

[@EmilyGloeggler7984]

Beware of Vitamin B12 deficiencies while on metformin.

[@robynhope219]

My functional MD instructed me to take 5000mcg of B12, 200mg CoQ10 w Metformin.

[@TonyJ1776]

I really appreciate this insight. I am in the same situation as the patient and I stopped taking metformin 2yrs ago, at first doing very well with diet and exercise to get weight way down but since then failing to keep things in check. This week I plan to get my doctor to put me back on Metformin.

[@DoctorBoz]

It’s a real struggle. Here is another option we offer twice per year: www.loom.com/share/77494c92bfb24e8ea89e99185affe534

[@reshaun1967]

Very impressed with how you explained insulin resistance with the graphics.

[@janemoss2937]

I didn't want Metformin when I was first diagnosed T2, but my doc persuaded me and said I might not need it forever. Took it for about 3 months while I changed my diet to low carb and got my A1c down. After this, doc agreed I could drop the Metformin and continue using diet alone and that's what I am doing. Metformin is like a crutch is for a broken leg, useful while it heals but able to be discarded after.

[@PamelaSmith20010]

Praying for your and families safety ! God Bless🙏🏼💖

[@drchrisgrayson2042]

Hello 👋 Beautiful Lady 🌹.. how are you doing today and your weather condition like?

[@irenepalmer7597]

Love your science Dr. Boz. Right now I’m doing your three day sardine fast. As someone who took Metformin for years it did absolutely nothing for me unfortunately and probably more harm in taking it than not. I had a choice to make and I decided to do it natural and it works as long as you stick to it and make it a lifestyle. A1 c went up to 9.5 on Met Formin. I got on the bike and kept moving until I lost 50 pounds and then I started seeing a difference without the Met Formin. Keto was the icing on the cake.Every so often I cheat and that’s what keeps me going so I don’t feel deprived. I know I won’t live forever anyway so I don’t wanna get too anal like some do. When I say cheat it’s normally healthy cheat. Things I don’t need every day on keto. Appreciate your knowledge.

[@johanneshendrikslabbert8185]

What is the affect of Metformin on your kidneys? And your nerves? I stopped taking Metformin and my nerves in my feet started to calm down. I now take herbal remedies for my blood sugar and blood flow

[@X-157.98]

Thanks Dr Boz, this is exactly what I needed to hear from a trusted source.

[@cheetos585]

What's frustrating is that no one, I mean no one talks about what to do once prescribed metformin. How do I get off this medication permanently? So Frustrating.

[@loneranger7573]

JUst. Stop. Taking. it. walk for 20 minutes after meals. ditch processed carbs like pasta and bread. only have veggie carbs. You're welcome.

[@kathyb8540]

I would like to know too.

[@mpoharper]

I added metformin to keto because of my cancer genetics. Previously prediabetic well before diagnosis, which was reversed with keto alone 2 years before cancer. Metformin keeps insulin nice and low. Currently in remission.

[@DoctorBoz]

Great job. You WIN!

[@mpoharper]

@@DoctorBoz Hope to keep it that way.

[@BigPhilly15]

I’ve been on Metformin for YEARS but finally started keto and intermittent fasting 7 months ago and am down 60 lbs and completely off insulin. I’m still on Metformin but wondering if I should tell my doctor to ditch that as well.

[@omgitsnishaaa]

im thinking do intermittent fasting and keto along with taking my metformin meds, did u lose weight immediately from when u changed your diet?X

[@jeffcunningham9868]

I refused Metformin upon my T2D diagnosis (A1C in the 14s), because I've never handled pills well, and I've heard horror stories about that medication's side effects. I was given Ozempic instead, and on the latest dose, I've gotten my A1C down below 6, without side effects, while also adjusting my diet and starting an exercise routine. More power to those who use Metformin, and see results, but I knew it wasn't for me and I'm glad I have a doctor who listened.

[@wardzaza768]

Is your face sagging yet? They are now saying people are getting sick and gaunt looking from it.

[@icontrolmyownguns2096]

@@wardzaza768 People are also getting Ozempic butt from this venom. Most people don't know that Ozempic is synthesized Gila monster venom. A scientist noticed the venom lowered glucose in its prey and made it into a diabetic drug. He didn't realize that the venom also digests muscle. God designed the venom to dissolve muscle to help the lizard digest its prey. Alot of the weight loss while taking this poison is muscle loss.

[@epicsdrummer2010]

The common denominator in glucose metabolism? Thiamine. Metformin depletes........wait for it. Thiamine. First step? Address the functional Thiamine deficiency.

[@jimw7916]

metformin depletes far more B12 than it does thiamine.

[@ray99931]

My blood sugar levels where spiking whilst taking this horrible tablet, I was never off the toilet, terrible migraine vomiting… thought I was going to die. Threw them in the bin after 2 months, my appetite was nonexistent. I’ve never fell so good since I’ve stopped taking them, my blood sugar levels are back to near normal, my diet was more than able to help get my blood sugar levels under control. My advice is, don’t take these horrible toxic things, diet is more than enough 👏

[@cherissevocage2928]

Same here

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

cant believe docters are allowed to hand out put out such crap.

[@cherissevocage2928]

@jeanpaultongeren125 Exactly 💯 right now my liver is not functioning properly after giving birth.

[@Jaymiranz]

So blood sugar spikes while taking it and back to normal Off of it?! Were you using it to lose weight and not diabetic?

[@neldog510]

What could help also is if you walk for 15min after a big meal, your muscles will eat up glucose with out insulin.

[@juanitagartley937]

Walking not enough for me. Not even walking two hours. I have to do light aerobics at night.

[@CarnivoreDiet101]

I've started Carnivore diet two weeks ago.. my a1c was 7.9 now dropping to low 7. I'm giving myself 3 months for my body to adopt to fat burning instead of carb/sugar burning. I'm 68 and I've been a diabetic for decades, the whole time I've been trying to reverse it with eating healthy (US standard diet) and excercise, no luck. I refused to take Metformin. I'm hopeful with the new diet.. it's my last hope. Also, Stelo cgm has been super helpful! Wish you well and all the best!

[@LWin-ps8jp]

With a high AC 1 of 14.3 I'm trying diet and exercise first. If my levels don't come down, I'll consider it. My BS have come down between 80 and 130. Drop 10 pounds in a month and exercising everyday. Diet I'm on is keto. When I eat berries that's when my BS goes up to 130. Cutting those back out of my diet for the next two months and fasting 14 to 16 hours at the moment. Working my way to 20 hours and see if that makes a difference.

[@brianmoore1164]

There is a zero medicine alternative if the self discipline is strong enough. My A1c was 10.0 with a fasting BG of 275. In three months my A1c fell to 5.0 and my fasting BG was 90. I dropped my daily carb intake to less than 20 grams. I have maintained a ketovore diet ever since and have never felt better. All of my lab work is excellent and I continue to check my BG daily to keep an eye on myself.

[@juanitagartley937]

My numbers are the same but my sugar spikes with stress because my cortisol levels become high.

[@rld1278]

Diabetic meds, high blood pressure meds, and high cholesterol meds all deplete magnesium form their bodies...which I believe is necessary for the pancreas to function.

[@trh55]

I'm a new subscriber, having seen my first video yesterday. Your recommendatioins mirror my lifestyle and I will be spending the next several days watching all of your presentations. About five years ago I suffered an accident that resulted in a serious compound fracture of my leg and ankle. While hospitalized, it was learned I had type 2 diabetes and Metformin was prescribed. My reaction to that drug was very unfavorable, so I immediately started a healthier eating regimen and today I have everything under control. I'm 70 years old and in great health, but need to find a PCP- how do I find one like you? What should I look for, and how do like minded physicians advertise their methods? I live in Westmoreland County PA, about 35 miles east of Pgh. Thanks!

[@sammy6866]

Not everyone wants to tackle everything naturally. If anything its way too frustrating, and some of us need that extra push or help to get back on track, and tjats okay.

[@MichelleGarcia-fg2xq]

I take all natural metformin, for now.... simply stopping it statins and a medication fire depression, took my A1C from 6.9 to 6.2, and I'm not done yet. 😊 my goal is to get under 6.0, and then once i reach that goal, I'll keep going. Still gotta be careful not to go TOO low. It's going to take time cause i was on those meds for too long. And i was never told, upfront about those side effects of those meds. Buuuut, no matter what i may be prescribed in the future, my 1st question will forever be, what are the side effects, including does it mess with my sugar levels. Always ask and advocate for yourself. ❤

[@mfander123]

Metformin increases my blood glucose, in morning and after meal. I stop metformin and use low carb and apple cider vinegar before each meal, blood sugar dropped in morning and after meal.

[@danishlace2002]

What other alternatives are there as far as drugs like Metformin? I've been diagnosed as Diabetic for 19 years now. I've run the entire gamut of meds. For the first 7 years, I was on Metformin, and got progressively worse. I could not hold a job (or even go to Walmart for groceries) because of the explosive diarrhea and stomach ache! Fortunately, I was a stay-at-home mom then and hubby likes grocery shopping! I cannot live my life ten steps away from a bathroom and hold a job, and now I have to work full time. For the last 3 years I have read and used knowledge from Dr. Fung, you, Dr. Boz, and Dr. Berry. I'm down 60 pounds and off meds and seem to be going down some in my sugars. But ONE false move and I'm back in the 200s for another five days. Just recently, ate bbq pork plate with a SMALL helping of beans and slaw. And the leftovers the next day. That led to a major sugar craving and increased glucose levels. If there is a brand of Metformin that does not cause severe and explosive diarrhea, I'd like to know about it! I've taken Extended Release and regular releases. I've tried other meds mixed with Metformin, like Avandamet. The Metformin symptoms were the same, but the Avandia caused heart problems! What seems to work for me right now is 72-hour fasting, donating blood, and Keto. It's about time to donate blood again, too. But my sugar will not stay down; as I said, one false move and I'm back to the battle again for another five days because it just won't come down. This time I've been "good" since August 1, 2022. I guess I am learning that I cannot fall off the wagon at ALL, like a true alcoholic. (shrugs) It would be nice to have a small piece of cake once in a while, but I guess those days are over for me! ugh.

[@drchrisgrayson2042]

Hello 👋 Beautiful Lady 🌹... how are you doing today and how is your weather condition like?

[@bloozedaddy]

There are no alternate versions of metformin...it is what it is. It works by driving the sugar back into the cells and organs. Some diabetes drugs like Farxiga/Jardiance (SGLT2 drugs)work differently and you might want to check into them. Farxiga actually blocks an enzyme that interferes with the release of high sugar into the urine and out through bladder. Your body wants to get rid of the blood sugar via urine. To me that seems like a far more beneficial approach than keeping it in the body. I also take metformin and have for over a decade and it does nothing to me as far as side effects. I really don't think any of these drugs are some kind of magic pill. I was off all meds for a few years and stayed low carb and had similar A1c scores regardless. ..............."How do SGLT2 inhibitors work? SGLT2 inhibitors work by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose back into the blood. This allows the kidneys to lower blood glucose levels and the excess glucose in the blood is removed from the body via urine." As for your issues with foods I'd just remember that some things that might look low carb may not be...if you had that BBQ plate with a sauce it could've been loaded with sugar...even the slaw might have sugar...and beans? well...they're pretty much carb bombs also probably loaded with sugar and promoted as a "health food". Most days I keep my total carbs under 20-30 grams. I have cheat days but don't sweat it. I'd certainly never take any diabetes drug if I had your aftereffects ....the risk reward isn't there. After being diabetic for 13 years I can give my opinion that the solution is 90%+ one's diet. These drugs give some people a very false sense of security in my opinion and make it to easy to think "well...I took my pills!" and then make poor decisions on food.

[@mamaci910]

I was on keto in 2018 and lost 80 pounds and was doing great. Then the shutdown happened and I’m a night icu nurse and started traveling. I got really bad with my diet and now my diabetes is full on. I’m in metformin and Jardiance because when I decided to check my health my glucose was 350. When I was pregnant I remember taking metformin and it was hard to keep my blood sugar up in the beginning this time around it seems metformin doesn’t work. The jardiance is great for dropping my numbers. I want to restart keto and binge watching your videos. I had restarted keto but my numbers were staying up and no weight loss so I stopped and started binging. I’m staying low carb for now. Does your course discuss how I can figure out where I am in my insulin resistance and at what point would I taper off the meds? Is there any labs I should request from my dr?

[@tiffanytaylor5272]

My A1C is 9.8! My dr prescribed me metformin and trulicity. I’m terrified to take both. Mostly because of the muscle loss it can cause.

[@seanveach950]

I refused Metformin as well, it does not help the issue to force sugar into the cells when they don't need it. Insulin doesn't stop working, the cells stop letting it work because they don't need energy. I disagree that the cells are starving, they can always use fat, and when there is too much sugar in the system, there is going to be too much fat as well. Forcing sugar into the cells is a bad idea. She was right, sorry Dr. Boz, I don't think you are on this one.

[@juanitagartley937]

My body eats my muscle for energy. My butt, and thighs go first.

[@seanveach950]

@ Unless you have almost no fat on you, it isn’t muscle going away. That would be starvation anyways.

[@simsammalinao1823]

Dr. Nir Barzelai shows that metformin slows muscular growth; however, the smaller muscles are as strong as the bigger muscles w/out metformin. I take B12 after 12 hours from taking metformin.

[@jacintamarling3752]

I take metformen. And still had problems with high blood sugar a1c at 8.6. So doc added glipizide daily and metformen bid. It helped. My a1c is now 7.5 after 2years. So staying as is. 😊

[@michaelking8903]

I was on metformin for years and also insulin injections. Max dose of metformin of 4 tabs at 500 mg each. 52 units insulin injected. ( wee

[@47AndyT]

Diabetics NEED to understand one thing. Everyone's diabetes os different. And how you respond tth this disease differs, but many including doctors don't get this!

[@johnspence919]

Actually metformin not only affect cell absorption, but also reduces glucose absorption in intestines and lowers kidney glucose production.

[@Treefiddy35054]

Functional doctor prescribed metformin as the “secret to aging” for a friend who is not even prediabetic but wanted to lose weight. How will this affect her?

[@ramennaidoo162]

I have been told that when you are on diabetic medication with metformin, the doctor must add vitamin B12 to protect you from nerve problems. Is this a fact?

[@janschallert6896]

My friend has a very high A1c and her doctor is prescribing metformin. But he discourages low carbs b/c he says the blood sugar goes dangerously low. I'm trying to help her with the keto diet, but I don't know what to say. I would just do keto anyway, but she is afraid low blood sugar is a real risk with metformin.

[@johfc]

If blood sugar is high (ie high A1c) I can't see how low carbs would cause dangerously low blood sugar as it would merely assist in reducing it. In any case, you can monitor your blood sugar as often as you need. As you will find out, if glucose gets very low the body will switch to ketones which is what will really help reverse or cure high blood sugar associated with insulin resistance.

[@LonelyTreeSunset]

Try Chromium Picolinate 400mcg first.

[@TheFriendlyPsychopath]

No!

[@loneranger7573]

Chromium Pic gave me such bad heart palpitations , sent me to hospital. It is a known issue from taking it. once I stopped it went away, and it actually did nothing for my bloodsugar.

[@cathyellis248]

I have a high blood glucose as well as high ketones, so why isn't my blood glucose coming down fast. How long will it take for my glucose to be normal.

[@samermohammed296]

I am struggling with my fasting glucose only around 100 mg/dl in average, should I consider Metformin?? Thanks for your advice

[@GilbertGreen]

Why are patients not made aware of the time-released version of Metformin? Time-released or extended-release is gentler on the stomach.

[@Maria-zv9up]

If the patient lowered her blood sugar by eating less and less carbs (eventually

[@CelineNoyce]

I qualify for Metformin via a clinical program for a blood disorder that I have. But when they told me the side effects and risks, I said no. I don't believe I am metabolically disordered so I don't think it would help. But if the clinical trial comes out saying that it works for the blood disorder, I will probably start it.

[@DoctorBoz]

Smart

[@nicolesherrod2579]

Hello Dr. Boz what would cause Metformin not to work? I was just diagnosed with Diabetes, A1C is 8.4. I’ve been taking it for 2 weeks now. Blood sugar still in the high 180’s. My twin sister was diagnosed with FSGS kidney disease from pregnancy and has been on Metformin for 5 years, and after I told her my blood sugar and A1C score was high she went and got hers tested and her A1C was 8.2!!!! So clearly the Metformin isn’t working she’s been on it for 5 years, and whatever reason I bet it won’t lower my blood sugar either. No we have never tried Keto or Carnivore but we are willing to try it. I saw you suggested OMAD or 6 hour eating window for diabetics and that you should move the eating window to daylight hours. We do have a family history of diabetes. I’m just curious why our medicine isn’t working. Do some people just have to go drastic with zero carbs? Insulin resistance. We’re both worried, she’s about to go retest her kidney, she thought she was protecting it with Metformin!

[@jesusrodriguera6039]

Dr. Boz, I have a question that no one has been able to give me an answer to. why is it that if you are insulin-resistant doctors prescribe insulin

[@akhtarkh]

Because your cells are becoming insulin resistant, so you feed them with more insulin. Just like your first cup of coffee, the caffeine in one cup would be enough to keep you awake. Overtime you would start drinking more and more coffee to get the same effect as your first ever cup because your body is becoming resistant to caffeine.

[@lunaticatiga]

So when we are on keto and taking metformin how we know when we are ready to stop metformin?

[@francoisplaniol1489]

Very good. I take met because of 7,2 a1c AND make 1h running 4x / week and eating 2MAD and reducing carbs to strict minimum and not rising the fats. And because met is known for anti-aging.

[@loneranger7573]

I don't buy that. It's the low carb healthy lifestyle that is anti-aging. met is a synthetic drug that damages kidneys over time. nobody needs it. your A1C can be dropped 2 or more points from just walking twice a day for 20 to 30 minutes after meals.

[@susanbargas6463]

Anyone know where i can find the info about eating the sardines video

[@GDixon-ch3yl]

When I moved to the city I'm in now that was my a1c 8.2 to 8.4 I was on 1000 mg of metformin two times a day with glipizide in the evening. The only thing that brought it down was changing what I was eating and when I was eating. I stay in the fives and low six is sometimes actually but medicine didn't help that when I'm putting in my mouth . Ketogenic and low carb diet with intermittent fasting did. Not awesome metformin she hasn't lowered the dosage which I think she should have but she hasn't. I'm going to give it another year I can't complain. The changes started in 2019 when I had had enough I moved here 6 years ago.

[@DoctorBoz]

Food choice RULES!!

[@myliveincolor4211]

I stopped Metformine and start Rebelsys. The med said it will do the same thing with my body to take care of insulineresistentie

[@johnray5568]

Thank you so much. This is a question I have considering.

[@JustaBritinChina]

Came off metformin over a year ago. Changed my diet. Lost a ton of weight.

[@zebonautsmith1541]

If a type 2 diabetic does not eat any sugar or any carbs; and has a high fat moderate protein diet; would there be any need for Metformin?

[@HamedAsifSulehri]

Can I take Metformin if have PCOD and subclinical hypothyroidism at the same time?

[@mamaci910]

I am able to make ketones. My ketones actually got to 5 when I started so that also worries me about doing it with medications. I should clarify when I was on keto I was also started on meds and jardiance can cause ketone build up so I had a small chest to lower my ketones from 5 to 3. I was so short of breath when I was at 5. But the cheat was what stalled my weight loss.

[@nenadcubric2663]

Metformin or Jardiance as first treatment?? Mostly Insulin Resistance

[@capodicasa4038]

I think I read that people on heart meds shouldn't use Metformin. Is that correct?

[@FollowScripture]

Can Cozaar for my Blood Pressure cause Diabetes ? I have been on that for over 10years

[@NatashaClarke-y2e]

Hello. If I take a Metformin pill now, will it put the blood sugar/glucose into my muscle cell now, or will it take several hours or will it take 2 weeks?

[@milesnexusicon9635]

I had an hba1c of 12.3, but I listened to Dr. Boz's advice instead of taking medication. Now, I am at 4.8. For type 2 diabetics, medication is really useless.

[@davelelonek]

Very interesting. My fasting Insulin is extremely high and I eat almost no carbs. I can’t seem to get my Ketone level above 0.9 eating like no carbs. 4 years ago I lost 46 pounds in 9 months doing keto. Slowly put most back on with some cheating but I’ve been strict for a couple months and can’t raise my ketone level or lose any significant weight. I’m not diabetic (yet 🤦‍♂️) would you recommend Metformin in this case?

[@WWarthog798]

Excellent explanation for a qualified short-term use of metformin with the view of getting off of it after dietetic change has remedied the underlying problem with insulin.

[@johnlieske8908]

Metformin and statins destroyed my muscles . I was told by one Doctor . Nothing helped my blood sugars get below 220 till I started on your keto diet . And in the last 2 weeks it's dropped to 155 . thanks for your information

[@nenadcubric2663]

My choice would be Ozempic, because for also weight loss

[@SpaceDad42]

That stuff is very dangerous. Do NOT take it.

[@ToktokOrbigoso]

Nice work Doc

[@dq7143]

Modern medicine can help stabilize a patient until the root health issue can get fixed. Unfortunately, a patient can feel better while taking meds thinking that there is no need to change.

[@johfc]

Modern medicine, especially emergency treatment, can be amazing in addressing a short term problem that in many cases may be life saving. Long term use of modern medicine is not a solution. Can you continually go to the emergency department to prolong your life?

[@grainiac7824]

Why not berberine instead?

[@erwinrogers9470]

Does Metformin, impair mitochondrial functions?

[@blackbart5803]

So you didn't speak about the side effects of metformin? Long term and short? I assume you also recommended the keto lifestyle change to solve this issue permanently and get off the drugs? I was posed with a 6.9 A1C and chose to refuse the metformin and go keto and over a six month period and had normal labs and a slightly elevated A1C of 5.7.

[@DoctorBoz]

Yes.. the side effects are transient for short term .. and I contend once you lower your A1C into the lower 5 range …. Stopping Metformin is reasonable

[@blackbart5803]

@@DoctorBoz Thanks for the response.

[@Dwhinery]

Totally agree. Thanks!

[@estherlyncelestinocardenas3942]

i use metformin for 27 yrs now IYS GOOD FOR ME

[@ashleynrota89]

The regular or the ER?

[@williamdkelly]

@ dr boz should someone stop taking metformin 1000 mg a day before they start taking ozempic or moujourno?

[@vikramjayanth2289]

I am in a similar situation on keto for over two years and HbAic under 6.5 with no medications and now struggling to lower blood glucose levels. Right now my Hba1c is 7.3 and not going into keto. So my doctor wanted me to take metformin for some time till I can lower the blood sugar levels and then get to Ketosis again

[@arlenematurin9600]

thinning of the hair, What can cause this?

[@TrinaBelcik]

I was on metformin but looking for a better alternative while I get my diet situated (keto 3 months now) and body to heal. I’ve been looking at inositol. What are your thoughts regarding inositol? I need to do the sardine challenge lol but until I can get to that point I’ve added exogenous ketones,MCT and looking into inositol due to my morning glucose still in upper 90s but ketones around 0.4-0.7.

[@mikeward9870]

One of my gurus said that muscle cells are some of the few that can take up glucose without insulin. May only be during exercise? Hmm.

[@brendawilliams8832]

Hell no. I took it and ended up in the emergency room as I had a reaction to it. My friend advised me not to take it but I didn’t take her advice and she was a nurse.

[@davidbarry9690]

I am in a diabetic support group and all they talk about is meds, crazy

[@comejustasurdeshields7053]

I keep hearing Metformin is for a type 2 diabetes, but I'm just prediabetic, so why am I Prescribed this medicine?

[@topdoglogistics1406]

Isn’t berberine a safe alternative?

[@kat7777]

No pharmaceutical drugs are totally safe...... Eat sensibly and your body will look after you

[@DoctorBoz]

It is trying (and to a small degree) to do the same thing as metformin. Unfortunately- not all the versions are equal & no one oversees this supplement. I vote for metformin if you’re using this “medication” option. It is best to reverse the problem .. but if you take something- find the highest quality, lower at price, double checked by the highest authority (FDA) … in other words - metformin.

[@Jack-hy1zq]

​@@DoctorBoz The FDA is not an organisation I would trust at all. There are widely trusted brands of berberine..'Thorne' is one of them. Thousands of positive online reviews. Several large-scale randomised controlled trials show berberine is just as effective as Metformin with hardly any (or none) of the side effects.

[@Jack-hy1zq]

​@@kat7777 Most pharmaceutical drugs are anything but safe.

[@kat7777]

@@Jack-hy1zq Correct 👍 They don't make money from healthy ppl so best to keep them sick and funding big pharma.....

[@Xzelian]

In my personal journey I found there are dangers with Metformin due gastrointestinal problems which can occur. In my case it triggered conditions which led to Guillen Barre syndrome. I am now using Goat's Rue extract and about to introduce cinnamon bark. Goat's Rue is primary plant concentrated in the manufacture of Metformin. I tolerate Goat's Rue just fine with no obvious side effects whatsoever. It's pretty inexpensive and should a zombie apocalypse happen it's easy to come by. Personally I feel we should all know where our drugs come from and go with the natural variant whenever possible.

[@arlenematurin9600]

can any of the diabetic med cause have thinning. or what can cause this? please help

[@marymvankampen3140]

What if my A1C is 5.7 and my fasting glucose is 100? Should I take Metformin?

[@DoctorBoz]

Study what makes the glucose rise Address that

[@marymvankampen3140]

@@DoctorBoz thank you!

[@samuelbrainsample]

What do you say to other Dr.s & physiologists right here on youTube who say that insulin is not necessary for glucose uptake my muscle cells during exercise, particularly HIIT type of exercise? Also, just this morning I learned that Metformin blunts aerobic training hormesis. Also, also, there seems to be a recommendation to up your B12 levels (hey, you vegans) when taking Metformin as it may lower levels of that vitamin, even more if you drink alcohol daily.

[@rojannazimmerman4818]

Does metformin take away from your muscles permanently?

[@Millz544]

Yes

[@rojannazimmerman4818]

@@Millz544 And once it takes away from the muscles there is no getting that muscles back ?

[@Millz544]

No not with the metformin

[@lisatjcory]

My Glucose was 150, A1C 5.9 they put me on Meformin 500 mg twice a day said I was insulin resistant . started me on 800 cal Diet high protein low carb. I also have Hypothyroidism?

[@GDixon-ch3yl]

That's really severe like to see what Dr Boz has to say.

[@kristinbailey4357]

Are you eating a low carb diet? Just wondering? My fast blood glucose was 150 in July now it’s 99 after changing my diet. My A1C was 7.2 I refused meds maybe I shouldn’t have but I decided to do the work myself bc I hate meds. I guess I’ll see if I did damage in October when I do blood work again.