Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body has trouble controlling the level of sugar in the blood. The people took a medicine called metformin to help control their blood sugar levels.
However, they didn’t know that metformin could cause another problem.
Metformin is a medicine that can lower the amount of vitamin B12 in the body.
Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient that helps the body make red blood cells and keep the nervous system healthy.
When the body doesn’t have enough vitamin B12, it can cause problems like tiredness, weakness, and numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.
In the study, scientists wanted to find out more about how metformin affects vitamin B12 levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
They searched for studies that looked at the connection between metformin and vitamin B12 deficiency. They found 19 studies that met their criteria, and they looked at these studies to see what they could learn.
The studies showed that people with type 2 diabetes who took metformin were more likely to have low levels of vitamin B12 than people who didn’t take metformin.
This was especially true for people who took high doses of metformin. The longer someone took metformin didn’t seem to make a difference in their vitamin B12 levels.
When people don’t have enough vitamin B12, it can also affect other things in their body. For example, it can cause an increase in a substance called homocysteine, which can be harmful to blood vessels.
It can also cause a decrease in a nutrient called folate, which is important for making new cells.
To prevent vitamin B12 deficiency in people with type 2 diabetes who take metformin, scientists recommend that doctors check their vitamin B12 levels regularly.
They also suggest that people taking metformin consider taking vitamin B12 supplements or eating more foods that are rich in vitamin B12, like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
In conclusion, metformin is a medicine that can help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels.
However, it can also lower vitamin B12 levels in the body, which can cause other health problems.
By monitoring vitamin B12 levels and taking supplements or eating more vitamin B12-rich foods, people with type 2 diabetes who take metformin can help prevent vitamin B12 deficiency and its complications.
How to manage type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes sugar (glucose).
It is a serious health concern that can lead to complications like heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and vision problems if left unmanaged.
However, there are steps you can take to manage type 2 diabetes and improve your overall health. Here are some tips:
Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial in managing type 2 diabetes.
You can check your blood sugar levels using a blood glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor. Your healthcare provider can help you set target levels and develop a monitoring plan.
Follow a healthy diet: Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help control blood sugar levels and prevent complications of type 2 diabetes.
A healthy diet should include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It is important to limit or avoid processed and high-sugar foods.
Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help lower blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of complications of type 2 diabetes.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week, with your healthcare provider’s approval.
Take medications as prescribed: Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage blood sugar levels.
It is essential to take medications as prescribed and to inform your healthcare provider of any side effects or concerns.
Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can make it harder to manage type 2 diabetes.
Losing weight through healthy eating and regular exercise can improve blood sugar levels, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and lower the risk of complications.
Manage stress: Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so it is essential to manage stress effectively. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Get regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are important in monitoring blood sugar levels, managing medications, and preventing complications of type 2 diabetes.
In conclusion, managing type 2 diabetes requires a multi-faceted approach, including regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, healthy eating, regular exercise, medications as prescribed, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and getting regular check-ups.
By taking these steps, people with type 2 diabetes can manage their condition effectively and improve their overall health.
The research was published in Current Diabetes Review and was conducted by Rabie Khattab et al.
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