Insulin resistance is the phenomenon whereby our body cannot use the insulin in our blood effectively, which leads to high blood sugar levels. Metformin is a drug that’s been used for decades in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this article, we are going to explore how metformin helps reduce fat accumulation by breaking the barriers of insulin resistance.
What is Metformin?
Metformin is a drug that is most commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to elevate triglyceride levels in patients with diabetes.
Metformin is also prescribed off-label for weight loss in some cases. It’s rendered as part of a weight loss plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How Does Metformin Help in Weight Loss?
Metformin helps in weight loss by sinking the amount of glucose in the blood and increasing insulin sensitivity. When glucose is present, it is usually metabolized into fat storage.
Thus, low blood glucose can lead to a decrease in fat storage. Metformin has also been shown to increase the amount of fat that is broken down and used as energy by the body instead of being stored as fat.
Helping to Lose Fat by Breaking the Barriers of Insulin Resistance
Due to the presence of insulin resistance, glucose and other nutrients cannot penetrate the barrier of cells. This leads to an irregular influx of blood sugar into the cells (from the noncellular component of the bloodstream), which is harmful to the body.
Metformin breaks this barrier of insulin resistance so that glucose and other nutrients can now easily enter into the cells. This helps in the better uptake of glucose and nutrients, which further leads to a decrease in blood sugar and slashes the excess glucose in the blood.
Bottom Line
Metformin is a drug that is most commonly used in the management of type 2 diabetes and is also prescribed for people who are at high risk of developing diabetes. Metformin is also prescribed for weight loss in some cases and is often used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and routine physical activity.
Interesting in adding Metformin to your treatment protocol? Speak with a Tonik provider today.