Home / Health / Metformin May Undermine Exercise Benefits, Rutgers Study Finds
Metformin May Undermine Exercise Benefits, Rutgers Study Finds
16 Nov
Summary
- 1 in 3 American teens have prediabetes
- Metformin may reduce exercise's benefits for blood sugar, vessels, fitness
- Researchers urge discussing findings with doctors to optimize treatment
According to a recent study from Rutgers University, the widely used diabetes medication metformin may undermine some of the key benefits of exercise. The 16-week, double-blind trial followed 72 adults at risk for metabolic syndrome, splitting them into groups that exercised with and without the drug.
The results showed that those who exercised without metformin saw clear improvements in vascular insulin sensitivity and other markers of heart health. However, when metformin was added, these gains shrank. Participants also experienced less reduction in inflammation and fasting glucose levels.
Researchers believe metformin may interfere with the body's ability to adapt to exercise at a cellular level, potentially by impacting blood vessel function and nutrient delivery to muscles. They stress that people should not stop taking metformin or exercising, but rather discuss the findings with their doctors to ensure they're getting the optimal combination of treatment and activity.
Separately, a new report has found that one in three American teenagers now have prediabetes, a concerning statistic that highlights the growing health crisis. Experts warn that urgent action is needed to address this trend and prevent the development of full-blown type 2 diabetes in young people.
