When sufferers are identified with kind 2 diabetes, one of many first questions they often ask is, “Physician, why not prescribe only a weight loss plan like keto or intermittent fasting as an alternative of medicines?” It’s an affordable query, particularly right this moment, when life-style modifications could make an enormous distinction. Even a Quora person requested the identical: ‘Why do docs desire prescribing Metformin for kind 2 diabetes as an alternative of simply recommending keto diets or intermittent fasting?’
So, what precisely is the explanation?
Specialists urge that medical science relies on what constantly works for various teams of individuals. “That’s the place Metformin is available in,” stated Dr Vijay Negalur, HOD, diabetology, KIMS Hospitals, Thane.
Metformin is usually the primary medicine prescribed worldwide as a result of it has many years of proof displaying that it safely lowers blood sugar, improves the physique’s use of insulin, and even supplies added advantages like supporting coronary heart well being and modest weight reduction, stated Dr. Negalur. “Not like many medication, it’s reasonably priced, well-tolerated by most sufferers, and doesn’t sometimes trigger harmful drops in blood sugar,” added Dr Negalur.
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In distinction, whereas dietary methods just like the ketogenic weight loss plan or intermittent fasting may be useful, they don’t seem to be appropriate for everybody. “These approaches require strict self-discipline, might not match sufferers with different well being issues, and sometimes grow to be troublesome to keep up over time. For example, a keto weight loss plan can increase levels of cholesterol in some individuals, whereas fasting might not be secure for these with unstable blood sugar, kidney points, or these taking sure drugs,” stated Dr Negalur.
Is it for you? (Photograph: Getty Pictures/Thinkstock)
Docs stress that one shouldn’t ignore life-style modifications, as these are the muse of managing diabetes. “We promote balanced diets, common train, stress administration, and good sleep, together with medicine. Nevertheless, when somebody’s sugar ranges are already excessive, ready months to see if a strict weight loss plan works may result in problems that have an effect on the eyes, kidneys, coronary heart, or nerves. Metformin affords a dependable security internet whereas these life-style modifications are being made,” stated Dr Negalur.
Briefly, the aim just isn’t “drugs versus weight loss plan” however “drugs and life-style”. Metformin supplies stability, whereas sustainable life-style modifications create long-term management. Collectively, they offer sufferers one of the best probability at residing more healthy, complication-free lives.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
