You must be familiar with Metformin if you struggle with Type 2 diabetes. But if, for some reason, you are not, then let us tell you what it is. Metformin is a prescription drug used to treat type 2 diabetes. Available in the form of tablets and solutions, Metformin belongs to the biguanides class of drugs.
Metformin helps people fight diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity, influencing the liver to produce less glucose, and absorbing glucose to decrease its level. The pharmaceutical drug is effective and only taken after a doctor prescribes it.
Unlike other prescribed drugs to regulate blood sugar levels, Metformin is easy to consume. The drug is a boon to people who dislike administering injections or fear those pointy needles.
Who Is Metformin Not For?
Here’s a closer look at who Metformin is not for:
Severe Renal Impairment
Metformin is contraindicated in individuals with severe renal impairment, typically defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². The kidneys play a crucial role in Metformin’s elimination from the body, and impaired kidney function can lead to a buildup of the medication, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
Known Hypersensitivity to Metformin
The medication should be avoided if someone has a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Metformin or its components. Allergic reactions to medications can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis, making it imperative to steer clear of Metformin in such cases.
Acute or Chronic Metabolic Acidosis
Metformin should not be used in individuals with acute or chronic metabolic acidosis. This includes diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition in uncontrolled diabetes, with or without a coma. Metformin can exacerbate acidosis, posing significant health risks in these situations.
Why Look For Natural Metformin Alternatives: Potential Side Effects of Metformin
Although Metformin has undergone testing and quality checks to be deemed effective in treating Type 2 diabetes, the prescribed drug may adversely affect your health. Some of the commonly known side effects of Metformin are:
Gastrointestinal Distress
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, vomiting, and increased flatulence are among Metformin’s most common side effects. These symptoms often occur when treatment begins or when the dose is increased. Starting with a lower amount and gradually increasing it can help mitigate these discomforts. Extended-release formulations may also enhance tolerability.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Long-term use of Metformin has been linked to elevated levels of homocysteine and malabsorption of vitamin B12. Prolonged use, especially at higher doses, may increase the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to anemia and neurological issues. Regular monitoring and supplementation may be necessary for some users.
Lactic Acidosis
While rare, Metformin’s most serious potential adverse effect is lactic acidosis. This condition is more likely in individuals with impaired liver or kidney function. Metformin is not recommended for those with severe kidney disease. It’s crucial to adhere to dosing guidelines and undergo periodic kidney function assessments.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Even at low doses, some individuals may find Metformin intolerable due to persistent gastrointestinal upset. About 5% of people may not tolerate Metformin at all.
Interactions
Metformin can interact with other medications. For example, cimetidine, an H2-receptor antagonist, may increase metformin levels in the blood by reducing its clearance through the kidneys. Anticholinergic drugs can also interact with Metformin, affecting gastric motility and potentially leading to increased metformin absorption.
Overdose
Symptoms of metformin overdose include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tachycardia, drowsiness, and rarely, hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. There is no specific antidote for metformin overdose, but supportive care and extracorporeal treatments may be necessary in severe cases.
You must know that people do not actively search for Metformin alternatives just because of these side effects, even though these are more than enough to put off most people. Under certain conditions, Metformin can cause lactic acidosis. Due to drug accumulation, you are more prone to heart attack and kidney failure.
The Top Metformin Alternatives in 2024 That We Recommend
Some natural Metformin alternatives are popular and loved by everyone because they are safe and offer multiple health benefits to optimize the user’s overall health. Our editorial and research team highly recommend the following:
GlucoTrust
GlucoTrust works to promote healthy blood flow and circulation. The supplement reduces hunger cravings, reduces glucose intake, and promotes deep sleep to rejuvenate you and reduce the cortisol stress hormone. Reduced cortisol may help you lose weight effectively.
About The Maker
The maker of this dietary supplement is allegedly a person named James Walker. Along with the help of nutrition experts and researchers, he has developed GlucoTrust by blending natural ingredients clinically proven to reduce blood sugar levels.
Under GlucoTrust, the supplement is safe to regulate blood glucose levels and lose weight.
Benefits of GlucoTrust
GlucoTrust comes with four significant benefits. First, it aids in weight management and weight loss. Secondly, the supplement is beneficial to regulate blood sugar levels. Thirdly, the ingredients in the supplement boost your energy levels to keep you active throughout the day. Finally, it promotes deep sleep by reducing stress, which helps promote your overall well-being.
GlucoTrust Pros
- Comes with a 180-day money-back guarantee.
- Offers bonus products.
GlucoTrust Cons
- The maker uses a pseudonym, so the manufacturer’s credibility is compromised.
GlucoBerry
The supplement reduces sugar cravings, decreases the level of glucose, and supports kidney health by boosting insulin sensitivity. It unclogs your kidney drain by removing the accumulated gray protein so excess glucose can be flushed out of your body.
The supplement claims to be doctor-formulated and contains only plant ingredients, making it a safe choice.
About The Maker
GlucoBerry is manufactured and distributed by MD Process, a leading health and nutrition sector figure. The formula is a result of Dr. Weiss’ hard work and dedication. He was inspired by the research of Harvard scientists on kidney drain and formulated this supplement to support kidney health.
This product is manufactured in an FDA-compliant facility and meets strict quality standards.
Benefits of GlucoBerry
GlucoBerry comes packed with five significant health benefits for you. The supplement can help you control blood sugar levels and boost your metabolism rate to help you get rid of those excess pounds.
Third, the supplement reduces sugar cravings, significantly lowering your sugar levels. The capsules are also known to promote heart health and kidney health.
GlucoBerry Pros
- Offers a 180-day money-back guarantee.
- Non-GMO.
- 100% natural ingredients.
GlucoBerry Cons
- Contains magnesium stearate and silicon dioxide.
- Daily value is not established.
Berbamax Berberine HCL
Berbamax Berberine HCL works in five ways to stabilize your blood sugar levels. It decreases insulin resistance by activating the AMPK enzyme. Also, it decreases sugar production in the liver and slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates to suppress the liver’s tendency to produce glucose. The supplement improves your gut health and removes accumulated fat to optimize overall health.
About The Maker
Berbamax manufactures this berberine supplement. The company is located in Fleetwood, UK. After exhaustive research and choosing natural ingredients scientifically proven to control blood sugar levels, the experts at Berbamax have created this dietary supplement.
Berbamax Berberine HCL is manufactured in an ISO-verified facility in the UK.
Berbamax Berberine HCL Benefits
Berbamax Berberine HCL offers five significant health benefits, including healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels and a robust immune system. Additionally, the supplement can support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart diseases, which are typical for diabetic people. The supplement also improves your digestion to aid in weight loss.
Berbamax Berberine HCL Pros
- More affordable than other supplements.
- A money-back guarantee is available.
Cons
- It may not work for everyone.
BerbaPrime
It works to regulate blood sugar levels, maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and boost your body’s metabolic rate. It activates the AMPK enzyme and inhibits fat metabolism to reduce fat growth. Thus, you can lose weight and control the fluctuating blood sugar levels.
About The Maker
BerbaPrime is manufactured by Health Nutrition Limited, based in England. The brand is known to challenge people to push themselves to find their best selves and motivate them to achieve their fitness goals.
With the help of nutrition experts and fitness professionals, Health Nutrition Limited has been a leading figure in the weight loss and health industry for more than two decades.
BerbaPrime Berberine is produced in a GMP-compliant facility in the USA.
Benefits of BerbaPrime
BerbaPrime has multiple health benefits. Some include improved blood pressure, weight loss, a healthy cardiovascular system, improved gut health, and optimal blood sugar levels. Additionally, the dietary supplement helps reduce inflammation.
BerbaPrime Pros
- Free of allergens.
- Natural ingredients.
- Offers a 100-day money-back guarantee.
BerbaPrime Cons
- As a dietary supplement, it is not approved by the FDA.
Barton Nutrition Berberine
The supplement’s advanced formula activates the AMPK enzyme, increasing insulin sensitivity and utilizing glucose in the bloodstream. The makers claim that taking Berberine supplements can also improve their digestion and fat-burning metabolism. It is highly beneficial in regulating the A1C levels.
About The Maker
This dietary supplement is manufactured by Barton Nutrition, which Joe Barton founded. Along with Dr. Scott Saunders and experts, Joe Barton developed this potent berberine supplement to help people with type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Saunders claims their supplement has all the nutrients your diet may lack. It can help you regulate your glucose levels and allow you to enjoy the occasional treats without worrying about your blood sugar levels.
The makers’ vision is to make supplements to meet the nutritional needs of their consumers and help them support better body function.
Barton Nutrition Berberine Benefits
Barton Nutrition Berberine supplement has natural ingredients that aid in lowering blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Other benefits of the supplement include increased insulin sensitivity, improved metabolism to burn fat, and better digestion for weight loss.
Barton Nutrition Berberine Pros
- A 365-day money-back guarantee.
- It is more affordable than most berberine supplements.
Barton Nutrition Berberine Cons
- Contains silicon dioxide and magnesium stearate.
Amiclear
The natural ingredients in the Amiclear supplement are clinically proven to regulate blood sugar levels. Amiclear works to increase insulin sensitivity to promote glucose uptake from the blood.
About The Makers
Jeffery Mitchell is said to have manufactured the Amiclear supplement. Unfortunately, no legitimate information is available regarding the owner and the company.
Third-party resources reveal that it is manufactured in an FDA and GMP-approved facility.
Amiclear Benefits
Amiclear is considered beneficial for use by both diabetic and non-diabetic people. Some of the benefits of the Amiclear dietary supplement include improved insulin sensitivity, a decrease in insulin resistance, and improved blood circulation.
The natural ingredients in the supplement may also help you reduce stress levels and improve your overall mood. The supplement can boost your metabolic activity, and burning fat ensures you never run out of energy.
Amiclear Pros
- All-natural formula.
- Non-GMO.
- Contains no additives.
Amiclear Cons
- It may not be suitable for pregnant women.
- Some people may not prefer the liquid form.
- It is costlier than some dietary supplements.
- It is available only on Amiclear’s website.
What’s The Science Backing Ingredients In Metformin Alternatives?
In a recent double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 120 participants with prediabetes, the efficacy of yarrow (Achillea millefolium), a widely used ingredient in natural Metformin alternatives, in promoting healthy blood sugar levels was investigated.
The study revealed compelling results, with the yarrow group experiencing a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels by an average of 12.5% compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05).
Furthermore, HbA1c levels, a key marker of long-term blood sugar control, showed a remarkable decline of 9.8% in the yarrow group (p < 0.01).
Another study demonstrated significant improvements in glycemic markers, with fasting blood glucose levels decreasing by an impressive 22% (p < 0.001) in people consuming berberine (another ingredient present in many Metformin alternatives) compared to the placebo group.
Additionally, HbA1c levels, a crucial indicator of long-term blood sugar regulation, exhibited a substantial reduction of 15% in berberine-treated individuals (p < 0.01).
Final Verdict On Metformin vs. Natural OTC Alternatives
In the world of blood sugar management, the classic medication, Metformin, has long been hailed as the go-to solution. But what if we told you there’s a lineup of natural alternatives that are not just as good as “going natural”?
Metformin isn’t shy about flaunting its list of gastrointestinal woes. From stomach cramps to an unpredictable bathroom schedule, it’s the drama we’d all like to avoid. On the other hand, natural alternatives in this review have a stellar track record for being gentle on your tummy. No more sprinting to the restroom or clutching your belly in agony.
But that’s not all; these natural wonders have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Metformin might help with your blood sugar, but BerbaPrime, Amiclear, GlucoBerry, etc., bring a broad spectrum of health benefits.
Picture this – blood sugar control with a bonus of reduced inflammation and free-radical fighting powers. It’s like having and eating your cake, minus the sugar rush.
