Metformin for insulin resistance?

[Normallynumb]

Just had Hba1c results of 44, down from 46 in November.
I have done everything possible to reduce this. Low carb/ high protein/ No added sugar.
BMI 21.6 at 5ft 4
I'm 60 with a family history of T1 diabetes.
I'm disabled so have increased walking within limits
Is it worth mentioning medication to my GP? I'm happy to try as I know the serious consequences of uncontrolled diabetes
Posting here for traffic
Any thoughts much appreciated

Has your GP suggested it? It seems that you’re doing all the right things, and your Hba1C score has come down, and is under the ‘target’ of 48.

When I saw the nurse for the first blood test she mentioned meds if it doesn't come down but I feel 2mmols isn't great considering I've done everything I can.
I'm still in the pre diabetic range, but blood results have noted " high risk" now because of the second.
There's no available appointments for 3 weeks anyway but I was just pondering on whether to suggest it, or wait and see.

Forgot to mention that I've recently developed black streaks on my cheeks( exactly where blusher should be!) and yellowing around temples and neck which I've read can be signs of pre or type 2.

You're in the pre-diabetic range and towards the lower end, so I'd have thought you were an unlikely candidate for Metformim.

Appreciate you're disabled and maybe can't walk too far. How's your upper body, could you do chair exercises on sitting tai chi? Also, it's not just about diet, it's about relaxing and bringing down stress levels and trying to get a good night's sleep.

Have you been on an NHS pre-diabetic course? If not, ask your GP if there's one in your area. I'm currently coming towards the end of one, it was a bit 'meh' the first couple of times, but I've found it really useful and interesting.

Metformin often cause side effects (primarily diarrhoea) so don't be too keen to get on when your HbA1c isn't even in the diabetic range. Keep doing what you're doing and your doctor or nurse will consider medication if needed.

I believe some doctors in the uk treat pre- diabetes but it's not the norm.

There is a Chinese herbal medicine that works in a similar way to metformin. It's very effective at reducing your HBA1C.

It's called berberine. It's a compound available from different plants.

It works but you'll need to ask the doctor for bloods to check your liver the same as they do on metformin.

Have a chat with your GP and mention berberine. It's classed as a food supplement.

Look into inositol? It’s a natural form of metformin and there are some studies showing it’s just as effective (and sometimes more) as metformin for insulin resistant pcos so imagine it could be beneficial for you but you would need to check. You can buy it from health food stores or online as powder and mix into water.

Metformin made virtually no difference to my blood sugar

Your HBA1C level is in the prediabetic range and has dropped again recently. You won't need Metformin unless it creeps up into the diabetic range and I highly doubt that your GP will agree to prescribe it.

Like any medication, Metformin does come with potential side effects including gastric upset. You don't want to take it unless really needed.

Brilliant advice Thank you all for your replies
I've never thought about chair exercise so I'll definitely look into those
My limit is 2k daily steps( on a good day!)
I've heard of inositol so will look into that, but ofc I'll discuss with GP first
I'm just disappointed that my Hba1c has only come down by 2 mmols despite my efforts
I guess medication isn't inevitable but at 60, I'd like to avoid if possible.
Much appreciate you all