Attention Diabetes and PCO's Sufferers - Is Your Medication Causing Vitamin Deficiencies?

Metformin is a drug that is very commonly given to people with Type II diabetes and/or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. It is frequently used by doctors as a "quick fix" to stabilize blood sugar levels and insulin resistance. New research from (J de Jager et al), has found that its long term use is associated with a deficiency of Vitamin B12. In their study of 390participants, a 19% decrease in vitamin B12 levels was recorded with a subsequent increase in homocysteine concentration of 5%.

So why is this important? Vitamin B12 is needed for a variety of activities in the body including regulating the formation of red blood cells and the utilization of iron, the synthesis or protein and metabolism of fat and carbohydrate. B12 is needed to maintain growth and prevent nerve damage. B12

This recent study also revealed that metformin raises homecysteine level. This should be of particular concern if you have high cholesterol levels or have a family history of heart disease, as homecysteine levels are related to both of these issues. People with Alzheimers Disease have also been found to be deficient in B12 and subsequently have high homecysteine levels.

If you are vegetarian, the effect of metformin is likely to be even worse. This is because Vitamin B12 and antioxidant status are already decreased in vegetarians, who also have higher than normal levels of homecysteine.

So what is a healthy alternative to using metformin? The most obvious solution is to lose the excess body fat. A diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates will help immensely. This diet will quickly stabilize blood sugar levels and increase satiety (you get satisfied more easily) also. Because protein requires very little insulin to process it, this type of weight loss program gives the pancreas a rest.

Exercise can never be overlooked - in fact it may even be more beneficial than dietary changes for long term fat loss. It is known that for several hours after exercise, the body requires less insulin to process glucose. Regular exercise will decrease body fat levels, and this in itself helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. Regular exercise along with adequate protein will also help build muscle mass, so the body will actually burn more energy.

So if you do suffer from diabetes or polcystic ovary syndrome, there may be much healthier options than taking a metformin tablet. Yes, diet or exercise is harder than taking a tablet, but the outcomes are well worth the effort. As you know, anything that is worthwhile takes a bit of effort, but of course there is nothing more valuable than your long term health.

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