 Metformin acts by increasing the sensitivity of the muscles to the effects of insulin. Loss of glucose tolerance with age is a loss of insulin sensitivity. Metformin restores the effects of glucose and insulin. Proved to be effective for type 1 and 2 diabetes with type 1 diabetics (insulin dependant) dramatically reducing their doses of insulin. Metformin stabilizes glucose levels and rarely causes hypoglycemia. It is recommended that long term users supplement their diet with vitamin B12. Metformin (brand name Metforal) has been used in Europe for 35 years in the fight against Type 2 diabetes. 25 years later the FDA approved it for the American market (better late than never!). It helps to control elevated blood sugar levels in NIDDM (non-insulin-dependant diabetes mellitus). It inhibits hepatic glucose production and increases the sensitivity of peripheral insulin tissues. When we age one of the most universal changes is the progressive loss of glucose tolerance. When this loss becomes pronounced, it is diagnosed as diabetes. Diabetes is believed by many gerontologists to be an example of accelerated or premature aging. This is why Type 2 diabetes used to be called age/adult onset diabetes because it is common in that age group. One of the most shocking facts in our lifetime is the epidemic of this type of diabetes in children. The USA is the fattest nation on the planet by a long way and obesity and Type 2 diabetes almost go hand in hand. Wake up America! your children are killing themselves with their diet and lack of exercise. Some medications for Type 2 diabetes act directly on the pancreas trying to extract the limited reserves of insulin. Metformin does not try to increase how much insulin the pancreas makes but acts on the liver preventing it from producing too much sugar and stopping hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Metformin lowers rather than increases body weight and does not cause hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Metformin also reduces triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels which are common factors in diabetics. In some cases Metformin can be combined with other antidiabetic agents or even insulin injections if the responsible medical professional believes it is the best course of action. This procedure may be adopted for people with insulin resistance. In effect, Metformin rejuvenates the sensitivity to the tissues therefore restoring the effects of glucose and insulin to much younger levels. Insulin-dependent diabetics (Type 1) are often able to reduce their doses of insulin, and more easily maintain stable levels of blood glucose. Most people past the age of forty are quietly suffering from sub-clinical diabetes because of the loss of glucose tolerance. Some doctors who have a keen interest in life extension recommend Metformin to their fellow minded patients. For those who do not ‘officially’ need Metformin for diabetes should improve their glucose/insulin metabolism and of course experience the added bonus of possible weight loss. Metformin can cause gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, stomach pain, bloating and loose movements but less so when taken with food. Also, due to the mal-absorption of vitamin B12 and folic acid supplementation is strongly recommended. Another possible problem with Metformin is a rare (1 in 10,000) but serious condition called lactic acidosis. To avoid this problem, Metformin should not be given to people with kidney or liver disease, severe heart failure, or a history of alcohol abuse. As always, please consult your medical health professional before considering the use of any pharmaceuticals. Approved Uses  © IAS Ltd. | 
