A recent study suggests that a widely used diabetes medication, metformin, could diminish the benefits of exercise for individuals managing type 2 diabetes. Researchers from Rutgers University found that adults taking metformin while engaging in physical activity experienced less improvement in key health indicators compared to those who exercised without the medication. The findings were published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism last month.
The study involved a 16-week, double-blind trial with 72 adults at risk for metabolic syndrome, a collection of conditions including high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels, which increase the likelihood of developing diabetes and heart disease. Participants were divided into four groups, with two groups performing high- or low-intensity exercise alongside a placebo, while the other two groups exercised under the same conditions but took 2,000 milligrams of metformin daily.
At the conclusion of the trial, those who exercised without the medication showed significant improvements in vascular insulin sensitivity, which is critical for delivering nutrients to muscles. This group also reported a greater reduction in inflammation and fasting glucose levels. In contrast, participants who took metformin exhibited less pronounced improvements, raising questions about the interaction between the drug and exercise.
According to Dr. Steven Malin, the lead author and a professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health at Rutgers, “Metformin is the most widely used glucose-lowering medication used around the world. However, it is not clear that taking both of these treatments together is best.” He cautioned that individuals might experience diminished energy levels and a sense of “psychological defeat” if they fail to see anticipated health improvements.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly 35 million Americans currently live with type 2 diabetes, many of whom rely on metformin for blood sugar regulation. While both metformin and exercise independently enhance blood sugar control and cardiovascular health, the study suggests their combined effects may be less beneficial than previously assumed.
Dr. Malin hypothesized that the diminished exercise benefits observed in participants taking metformin could be linked to blood vessel health. “Improved blood vessel function is key for delivering nutrients to tissues, like sugar,” he explained. “If the sugar cannot be delivered to the tissue, this might explain why muscles cannot use the sugar for energy as well in response to insulin.”
Despite the study’s findings, researchers emphasized the importance of not discontinuing either metformin or exercise. Instead, they recommend discussing these findings with healthcare providers to ensure optimal treatment strategies. Future investigations are planned to explore how metformin interacts with different forms of exercise, such as resistance training, and whether adjustments in dosage or timing can mitigate any negative effects.
While the results have raised concerns, Dr. David Cutler, a board-certified family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in California, noted the need to contextualize the findings. He stated that while metformin may reduce some exercise benefits, the significant reduction in blood sugar levels it offers is invaluable for minimizing risks associated with diabetic complications.
“The small decline in vascular insulin sensitivity needs to be weighed against the great benefit from lowered blood sugar levels achieved with metformin,” Dr. Cutler added. He advised that these findings should not deter individuals who rely on metformin for diabetes management, but might be more applicable to those utilizing the drug for other purposes, such as anti-aging or cancer prevention.
In light of these revelations, the ongoing discourse surrounding diabetes treatments continues to evolve. As researchers delve deeper into the interaction between medications and lifestyle choices, the ultimate goal remains clear: to enhance the health and well-being of those living with diabetes.
