Is there an alternative to pills? (besides needle)
The pills I'm on gives me diarrhea and I have been told that they can cause kidney or liver damage over time. Is there anything more natural that might work without the side effects?
Re: Is there an alternative to pills? (besides needle)
I understand that metformin can cause gastro distress. But it does not cause kidney damage, it is simply contraindicated if you already have kidney problems. Diet modification (low carb) and exercise can make a huge difference. Some folks have an easier time with the met by starting at a very low dose and then building up.
Re: Is there an alternative to pills? (besides needle)
Thanks, I just got diagnosed a few months ago and I'm curious if it is possible to get off medication completely with diet and exercise? has anyone here done it? Maybe become a vegetarian.
One more question, is protein powder ok? the all natural stuff without sugar.
Re: Is there an alternative to pills? (besides needle)
I have heard many stories online of folks who have gotten off meds through diet and exercise. I'm not sure I'd do protein powder as whole food is better for you and less of a burden on your pocketbook too.
Re: Is there an alternative to pills? (besides needle)
Popking...I had a bit of trouble with Metformin when I started it. I was taking it in the a.m. on an empty stomach so my Dr. told me to cut the 500 mgs in half for 2 weeks and take it with my largest meal..dinner. I did that for 2 weeks and then went to the 500 mgs. and so far...so good.
As far as diet and exercise, yes, many folks have gotten off meds. by watching what they eat and exercise. It's not really easy as you have to be totally dedicated to the new lifestyle, however it can happen.
Do a search for low glycemic and low carb foods. Make sure you test when trying anything new in the line of food to see how it affects you. As Cora said, too much protein isn't all that great either. As my Dr. said..everything in moderation.
Good luck...JJ....
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Re: Is there an alternative to pills? (besides needle)
Hi PopKing,
As Cora said, it may be quite possible to stay off meds IF you make some major changes regarding diet and exercise.
I want to caution you, however, that you absolutely MUST take this seriously...very seriously. If you try diet and exercise for a couple of months and are not able to keep your numbers down, then please do not further delay going on medication. The longer your blood sugars are elevated, the more damage will be done, and this is systemic damage, meaning it can affect every part of your body.
With dedication and appropriate help, however, you might be able to avoid medication. Ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietician for advice on eating/meal planning, find a way to fit exercise in to your daily regimen, even if it's only 10 minutes at a time, and get other support if you need it (Overeaters Anonymous if that's your problem, a membership to a gym if you need support around exercise, etc.)
And if you do all of that and your numbers still don't come down, or don't come down enough, please don't consider yourself a failure. The course of Type 2 is not the same for all people, with some progressing faster while in others the disease progresses more slowly. The one and only thing that is important is that you find a way to control those blood sugars!
