Metformin Weight Loss Before and After: Real Transformations and What You Need to Know
In recent years, the conversation around metformin has shifted from its primary use as a treatment for type 2 diabetes to its surprising role in aiding weight loss. The topic of 'metformin weight loss before and after' has captured the curiosity of many who are seeking effective and medically supported solutions to manage their weight. With numerous testimonials and studies surfacing, it's clear that this humble prescription drug is gaining traction beyond its traditional boundaries. But how does it really work, and what should individuals know before considering it for weight loss?
In today's fast-paced world, the healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, and ordering blood tests online has emerged as a game-changer, offering unparalleled convenience and accessibility to users across the globe—a trend explored in detail here. As more individuals embrace this shift, many are curious about what to expect from a home blood test, from sample collection to result interpretation—an experience outlined comprehensively in this guide. The growing popularity of these at-home services can be attributed to various factors, including privacy, time-saving, and proactive health management, all of which are key reasons behind the surge in demand for home health testing.
Understanding Metformin: More Than Just a Diabetes Medication
Metformin is commonly prescribed to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It works by improving insulin sensitivity, decreasing glucose production in the liver, and enhancing the body's ability to process sugar. However, during its use, many patients reported a modest but noticeable reduction in weight. This unexpected benefit sparked scientific interest and led to more comprehensive studies investigating its impact on body mass.
Though not originally designed for weight loss, the mechanism by which metformin works may indirectly support weight reduction. It suppresses appetite in some individuals, improves metabolic efficiency, and alters the gut microbiome in ways that might contribute to decreased body fat. These effects, while not universal, provide a scientific basis for the growing number of metformin weight loss before and after success stories.
What the Before and After Stories Reveal
When exploring real-life experiences, one common thread among individuals who have used metformin for weight loss is the gradual nature of their transformation. Unlike crash diets or extreme fitness regimens that promise rapid changes, metformin typically contributes to slow, steady weight reduction. Many users have reported losing anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds over a few months, depending on lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and consistency with the medication.
The 'before' phase often begins with individuals feeling frustrated by their inability to lose weight through traditional means. For some, underlying insulin resistance or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) had made weight management difficult. After starting metformin under medical supervision, many noticed subtle changes: clothes fitting better, a decrease in cravings, and more energy throughout the day. Over time, these improvements compound, leading to the 'after' phase marked by renewed confidence and improved health metrics.
The Science Behind Metformin-Induced Weight Loss
While anecdotal evidence is compelling, understanding the scientific framework behind these transformations adds credibility. Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, which are key factors in managing obesity-related conditions. Furthermore, some research suggests that metformin may influence certain hormones related to appetite and satiety, such as leptin and ghrelin, potentially reducing the urge to overeat.
Another intriguing aspect is how metformin interacts with the gut microbiome. Emerging studies indicate that this drug alters the composition of gut bacteria in a way that favors weight loss. While this area of research is still developing, the connection between gut health and weight regulation is becoming increasingly clear.
Important Considerations Before Starting Metformin for Weight Loss
Despite its promising benefits, metformin is not a magic pill. The most compelling metformin weight loss before and after journeys often come from those who combined the medication with meaningful lifestyle changes. Diet modifications, regular physical activity, and mindful eating habits significantly enhance metformin's weight loss potential.
Additionally, metformin is a prescription drug that should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea are not uncommon, especially when beginning treatment. Moreover, long-term use requires regular monitoring of kidney function and vitamin B12 levels to ensure safety.
It's also important to understand that results can vary greatly between individuals. Some may experience dramatic changes, while others might find little to no impact on their weight. Genetics, baseline insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic health all play a role in determining outcomes.
Realistic Expectations and Sustainable Outcomes
Perhaps one of the most valuable lessons from metformin weight loss before and after experiences is the importance of setting realistic goals. Unlike fad diets or aggressive supplements, metformin fosters sustainable changes by working with the body's existing metabolic processes. Users who approach the journey with patience and a long-term mindset are more likely to maintain their progress and develop healthier habits along the way.
Moreover, the psychological shift reported by many is worth noting. The gradual weight loss often leads to improved self-esteem, increased motivation to stay active, and a more balanced relationship with food. These benefits can reinforce a cycle of positive change that extends beyond the physical transformation.
Conclusion: Is Metformin the Right Tool for You?
The growing number of metformin weight loss before and after stories speaks to its potential as a helpful ally in the journey toward better health. While it may not deliver overnight results or work for everyone, metformin offers a science-backed option that supports gradual, sustainable weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle choices. As with any medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is essential to determine its suitability and ensure a safe and effective approach.
Whether you're struggling with insulin resistance, managing PCOS, or simply exploring medically-supported weight loss strategies, metformin could be a step in the right direction. Ultimately, the most inspiring transformations are those grounded in education, commitment, and a deep understanding of how your body responds to change.
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Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Jennifer Lawrence, Sophie Turner, And 15 More Celebrities Who Got SUPER Real About Periods And Hormones
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'I'm going to talk to the White House about it, because we should literally ban women working on the week of their period. And the week before, to be honest.' Honestly, I agree. The week before my period is HELL. Winslet We all know the struggle of getting your period when you're meant to be getting in a pool — now imagine you're getting into that pool with Leonardo DiCaprio and filming Titanic. 'I'm not saying it was all happy-clappy. There were days when you'd just think, 'Oh, my God, I've got my period and I can't get in that freezing-cold water today,'' Kate told Rolling Stone in 1998. 'I remember standing up and saying to everyone, 'Listen, if it suddenly looks like Jaws, the movie, it's my fault.'' Chamberlain Emma has talked openly about her experience with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and how getting treatment for the condition 'changed [her] life.' 'My periods are so much more chill, my skin is so much more predictable,' she said during a Vogue video. 'My hair is getting thicker. It's just feeling like I'm coming back to myself in a way.' Prior to this, Emma said she'd been struggling with 'irregular periods, cystic acne, anxiety, depression, and a slew of other issues.' Dunham After years of painful periods, Lena was diagnosed with endometriosis in her late 20s. "As my teen years progressed, my periods became more and more painful until it started to really disrupt my daily life," she told Cosmopolitan in 2020. In 2018, after enduring more excruciating periods, she chose to have a hysterectomy, which is a pretty uncommon treatment for endometriosis. You can read more about the procedure here. Related: Sophie Turner Opened Up About Her "Incredibly Sad" Split From Joe Jonas Johnson Your monthly cycle is a wild ride, and Dakota knows the struggle. In 2019, she told InStyle that her hormonal changes throughout her cycle are so 'traumatic' that it's 'ruining [her] life.' 'Every month. It's unbelievable. It's really fucking amazing. I can't get a grip on it,' she said. Raisman Aly is a gymnast with six Olympic medals and knows a thing or two about getting her period at the worst time — but it's not something that she feels the need to hide. 'When you're really nervous, you have butterflies in your stomach, and you have your period — it's just not a good combination,' she shared in 2017. 'You just kind of have to just keep going …You can't tell the judges you want to compete tomorrow or wait a few days.' As for whether she'd ever free-bleed like other athletes have in the past, she said: 'I don't know if I'd have the confidence to do that,' which, IMO, is totally fair enough. Pugh Florence is another female celeb who's talked openly about being diagnosed with PCOS in her 20s. Notably, she said in 2024 that she thought her PCOS symptoms, which involve irregular periods and weight fluctuation, were just 'part of being a woman.' '[I] didn't think that it was something that is common,' she said on the SHE MD podcast. 'I really just thought that it was something that you'd feel and that you'd know you had and that it wasn't really a worry.' Related: 28 Celebs Who Never Seem To Get Canceled Despite Some Pretty Awful Behavior Lovato Demi told People in 2015 that her mom and sister were so excited when she got her first period that they threw a mini celebration. "My sister folded a poster board in half and made a card out of it, and drew pictures, and it said, 'Happy Period Day!' And she drew stick figures and kisses, and she used red markers," she said. "I have a pretty good sense of humor, so on one hand, I was totally embarrassed, and on the other, I thought it was awesome." How's that for some period positivity? Kardashian In 2019, Kourtney posted a photo on Instagram of herself and her friend Stephanie Shepherd lying on a beach in bikinis. Giving some insight into their conversation when the pic was taken, she captioned it:' 'Is my tampon string showing?' @steph_shep whispered to me. The source of life shouldn't be embarrassing or hard to talk about. Mothers, teach your sons too.' Preach it, Kourt. Kaling Ironically, Mindy felt like her first period couldn't come fast enough. "I started menstruating in ninth grade," she wrote in a 2013 essay published in Rookie: Yearbook Two. "I spent all of eighth grade faking that I had my period, down to sticking Kotex in my underwear in case anyone needed proof." Cyrus Memorably, Miley said she got her first period on the set of Hannah Montana. "It was so embarrassing, but I couldn't leave," she told Marie Claire in 2015. "And I was crying, begging my mom, 'You're going to have to put the tampon in. I have to be on set.'" Lawrence We all know the pain of having to scrap the cute outfit you had planned in your mind because of your period — now imagine that with red carpet looks. In 2016, revealed that her dress for the Golden Globes that year was actually her second choice. "That was my plan-B dress," she told Harper's Bazaar. "Plan A was a dress that I couldn't wear because awards season is synced with my menstrual cycle, and it has been for years. [The dress I wore] was loose at the front. And I didn't have to worry about sucking anything in. The other dress was really tight, and I'm not going to suck in my uterus. I don't have to do that." On your period, it's gotta be comfort over style every time! Kardashian Kim remembers her first period to the very day, which is kind of iconic. 'I got my period seeing the movie Batman for your birthday,' she previously told her sister Khloé. 'June 27th.' xcx We know Charli is never afraid to speak her mind, and earlier this year, the singer candidly told fans at her Brat tour that she'd literally just come on her period. "Sometimes you're standing on stage and you get your period right before the show and you're wearing tiny little hot pants," she sang during the "Girl, so confusing" intro. "Is my tampon string gonna stick out? Or is it gonna be OK?" Cameron Dove told Seventeen that she used to be so shy about discussing her period that she'd buy tampons with her allowance to avoid awkward conversations. "I think I didn't even tell my mom when I started my first period, because I was shy," she said in 2018. "I just didn't want to talk to anybody about my I could go back and tell myself that it was okay, I would go back and tell myself that was okay." Turner In 2018, photographs of Sophie crying on an outing with her then-fiancé, Joe Jonas, caused a stir online. At the time, the Game of Thrones star was quick to provide some context. "Lol. Thank god I have a loving fiancé. Periods are a bitch," she wrote on Twitter (now X). When someone questioned the tears, Sophie hit back, writing: "Girl…. you've never had cramps?" Relatable. Beer Madison's story about her period leaking at a Justin Bieber concert might just be the most quintessential 2010s teenage experience... ever? "In front of like 30 girls, this one girl was like, 'You're bleeding, are you okay?'" she told Seventeen. "So I look down, and I was in these little black shorts, and I looked at my mom and I literally started crying and I ran to the bathroom." Fortunately, the "sweetest old woman" was there to save the day with a pad. What a queen. More on this Bella Hadid Got Candid About Shooting Victoria's Secret Campaigns On Her Period, And I Love Her HonestyEllen Durney · May 13, 2025 A Stranger In A Hair Salon Diagnosed Emma Chamberlain With PCOS After Noticing This Specific Thing About Her Appearance — Here's How It Wound Up Changing Her LifeEllen Durney · April 24, 2025 After Opening Up About The 'Mind-Boggling Realization' That She Needed To 'Quickly' Freeze Her Eggs, Florence Pugh Gave An Update On Her 'Tiring' JourneyEllen Durney · April 15, 2025 Also in Celebrity: "I Can't Emphasize Enough How Filthy Some Of These People Are": 39 Hollywood Secrets People Have Learned From Working With Celebs Also in Celebrity: If You Think You're Smarter Than The Average Celebrity, Prove It By Correctly Answering These Questions They Got Wrong On "Jeopardy" Also in Celebrity: 12 Celebs Who Came Out At A Young Age, And 13 Who Came Out Way Later In Life
News24
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Haven't been in the mood lately? Your contraceptive could be to blame
Contraceptives like the pill and injectables can cause a myriad of side effects, including low sex drive. These birth control methods produce oestrogen and progesterone, causing hormonal fluctuations. Experts suggest switching to an IUD, trying new ways of foreplay and more. _____________________________________________________________________ We all know how risky the pull-out method and hoping for the best is. For many women who aren't looking to get pregnant anytime soon, outside of condoms, hormonal birth control methods have been a go-to for years - just don't forget that regular STD checkup! Plus, many women find contraceptives particularly useful for controlling bad acne, treating PCOS and lowering the risk of certain cancers and abnormal growths. But, we don't have to tell you how the ups and downs that come with birth control methods like the pill and injections can make everyday living that much harder. From weight fluctuations to mood swings and irregular menstrual cycles, it's almost like women can't catch a break. Not to mention the crashing libido and low sex drive. Every women deserves a fulfilling sex life while looking out for their health. We got the experts to break down why hormonal birth controls affects libido and how you can get your groove back. How exactly do hormonal contraceptives work? Most hormonal birth control methods contain hormones oestrogen and progesterone, dedicated to changing the way your natural hormones are released to prevent ovulation. Dr Bradley Wagemaker, a medical doctor and director at Lamelle Pharmaceuticals, explains to TRUELOVE just how these added hormones affect your body. 'When you are taking oestrogen and progesterone, your ovaries go, 'Oh, you have, so I don't need to make', so they shut down. Now your brain goes, 'Hey, but you're not making stuff, why aren't you making stuff?' And then it sends a louder message,' Dr Bradley explains. 'That message can also affect mood. It can also affect how you feel. So, you have hormones doing what, in normal ovulating circumstances, wouldn't be doing and hormones can impact every neurotransmitter in the body, which is why people have regret.' Tips to get your sex drive back while on birth control Here are some ways to get back into the mood and have a healthy, fulfilling sex life while on hormonal birth control: Make lifestyle changes: Get active, cut back on the drinking and smoking (or put them down altogether) and get a regular good night's rest. 'Those are also very important benefits,' Dr Bradley says. Switch to non-hormonal contraceptives: Implanting an IUD device in the uterus is a good option to avoid the influx of hormones while ensuring lengthy prevention against pregnancy. If you're in a long-term relationship or marriage and are done having children or not looking to have any, your man can consider the simple and minimally invasive procedure of a vasectomy. Try different foreplay techniques: Foreplay involves more than just intimate pleasuring. 'Be intimate with your partner more often, for example, by kissing, holding hands and cuddling,' says licensed sexologist and couples therapist Sofie Roos. Try taking supplements: Sometimes your body just needs a little extra help. Take plant-based supplements that have ingredients like pine bark extract, rosehip extract, maca root or ginseng. But sometimes hormonal birth control methods like the pill and the injections are the best options for those who need to regulate other issues in their body outside of just preventing pregnancy. Here's why you haven't been up for some lovemaking For those using injectables like the two-month Nur-Isterate and the three-month Depo-Provera, Dr Bradley admittedly describes them as 'hardcore', sharing how his experience working in the gynae clinics show that these injections have a typically worse side effect profile than the daily ingestible tablet contraception. Dr Bradley explains, 'If you take injectable Nur-Isterate, which is just injectable progesterone, the effect on libido, for example, is profound. It's huge because what it's doing is it's impacting neurotransmitters that release in the brain that drive desire, that give emotional connectedness. Those different parts of the brain, those neurotransmitters are almost being overrun by the intensity of the signal from the progesterone. And so, their libido drops through the floor in many instances.'
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Yahoo
6 signs you need to see a doctor about your period
Periods are a routine – though often unwelcome – part of life for millions of women and people who menstruate. And for some, symptoms can affect everyday life. A recent study found more than a third (36%) of girls said they missed 1.7 days of school a year as a result of heavy or prolonged bleeding. And a survey by UK charity Wellbeing of Women found over half of women say periods are negatively impacting their lives. Yet, despite this, many of us are reluctant to see a doctor if we're struggling with our menstrual cycle. "The stigma and shame around periods mean many women delay seeking help for treatable symptoms," Janet Lindsay, CEO of Wellbeing of Women, tells Yahoo UK. "Our 'Just a Period' survey found that women wait nearly two years from the onset of issues like pain or heavy bleeding before speaking to a doctor," she adds. This wait can not only affect your daily life but may lead to a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts or, in rare cases, some forms of cancer. Understanding what's normal – and what's not – is key to getting help sooner. Here are six signs it might be time to speak to your GP about your period. Mild cramping at the start of your period is common. But pain that leaves you curled up on the floor, vomiting, or unable to function isn't something to brush off. "A period that stops you from living is not normal," says Dr Aziza Sesay, a GP and ambassador for Wellbeing of Women. "Whether that's going to school, work, or even just walking around – that's a red flag." "There's this narrative that women are just made to suffer," she continues. "But just because it's common doesn't mean it's normal." Intense pain around your period could be a sign of conditions including endometriosis – where cells similar to the womb lining grow elsewhere in the body, causing inflammation, pain and scar tissue – and adenomyosis, where the womb lining grows into the muscle wall. Fibroids, non-cancerous growths in or around the womb, can also cause painful periods. Changing a pad or tampon every one to two hours is an indicator of heavy menstrual bleeding – what Dr Sesay calls 'flooding'. "That's where you're frequently changing products, wearing both [a tampon and a pad] together, or even needing to sleep on a towel,' she explains. 'And it's not normal. A tampon should not fill up every 60 minutes, for example." This level of bleeding can impact your iron levels, leading to anaemia, which may cause tiredness, dizziness, headaches or shortness of breath, she explains. She advises speaking to your GP if you need to change products frequently or are regularly passing blood clots larger than 2.5cm (around the size of a 10p coin). While heavy periods can be normal for some people, they can also be caused by conditions including fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), according to the NHS. Unexpected bleeding can be a sign that something isn't right. This includes spotting between periods, after sex, or bleeding post-menopause. This type of bleeding might be linked to cervical polyps (small, usually benign tissue growths on the neck of the womb), infections, or more serious conditions such as endometrial or cervical cancer, Dr Sesay explains. While cancers are less common, she stresses early diagnosis is key. "Bleeding between periods, after sex, or post-menopause should always be investigated," Dr Sesay continues. "It could be a sign of something hormonal, but it might also indicate cervical or womb-related conditions. The sooner we know, the faster we can rule these out." Everyone's cycle is slightly different, but it's worth paying attention if yours changes noticeably or becomes unpredictable. Periods that suddenly become heavier, more painful, or arrive less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart could indicate an issue, according to Dr Sesay. "Conditions like thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – a common condition that affects how a woman's ovaries work – or even early perimenopause can all affect your menstrual rhythm," she says. When your period starts skipping without an obvious reason, such as pregnancy, contraception or menopause, it might be time to investigate. One missed period isn't always a cause for alarm, but Dr Sesay says, "frequent irregularity without explanation" is a red flag. "Stress, excessive exercise, weight loss or PCOS are common culprits,' she explains. "Track your cycle and bring that information to your GP. It makes the appointment more effective, as your doctor will be able to see your patterns clearly." Thanks to hormonal shifts, feeling low, anxious, or irritable before your period is common. But when emotional symptoms become extreme, disruptive, or hard to manage, it could be more than premenstrual syndrome (PMS). "There's a condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), and it's far more serious than regular PMS," Dr Sesay explains. PMDD is a little-known hormone-based condition that affects around one in 20 people who have periods worldwide. Symptoms include depression, anxiety and irritability, as well as reduced motivation, focus and libido. It can also be life-threatening: 34% of women with PMDD have attempted suicide, according to the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD). Dr Sesay stresses it's important to seek help and support as soon as possible if you're struggling with any of these symptoms. "Please don't delay visiting your doctor. We want to help support you; it's what we're here for. You don't have to suffer," she says. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Doctor Aziza Sesay| MBChB DRCOG MRCGP DFSRH (@talkswithdrsesay) Tracking your cycle, checking your body and trusting your instincts are all important ways to catch any issues early, according to Dr Sesay. "It's about asking yourself, 'what's my normal?' so that you know when your body feels off," she says. She advises using a tracker like the Wellbeing of Women Period Symptom Checker if you've noticed any changes in symptoms, saying, 'it only takes a few minutes to use and can help prepare you for what to tell your doctor". She also advises being persistent when it comes to menstrual issues."If someone dismisses your concerns, ask again," she says. "See another GP. Don't give up." Beyond recognising red flags, looking after your general health can also help keep your cycle stable. "What we do in our lifestyle will have an impact on our overall health – and that includes our cycle," she says. She recommends avoiding smoking and vaping, keeping alcohol under 14 units a week, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and managing stress. Read more about periods: Locked Loos And Leaks At School: Students Are Facing Too Many Barriers On Their Periods (Huffpost, 4-min read) What you need to know about menstrual cups, as doctors issue warning (Yahoo Life, 8-min read) What is PMDD? Vicky Pattison diagnosed with condition after 'feeling insane' for years (Yahoo Life, 4-min read)
