i am on metformin 500 3 times a day and i have started the cambridge diet which is 450 calories per day as i need to lose 3 stone
Is it safe to take metformin while on a low calorie diet of 450 calories per day?
Question posted by murrypuss on 7 July 2013
Last updated on 10 July 2013 by ang1049
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5 Answers
I totally agree with every answer above! That is not enough calories for anyone. Much less a diabetic. You are going to feel fatigue and tired. That sounds dangerous to me. I would consult my Physician and increase my calories with veggies and fiber at least. Foods that are good for your body. hope this helped, I am definitely not a doctor. But that is not the proper way to lose weight. Well wishes and good luck.
You need more then 450 calories a day
dear murrypuss, i am NOT a doctor, but 450 calories a day??? That is NOT enough, even for a well person. Just 6 months ago I was paralyzed from neck down by potassium levels too low. Was told it could have affected organs next had I not rec'd treatment when I did. Your body will not react well with that few calories, hon, and can be very dangerous. Please talk to someone before you start this...
That level of diet is going to cause you trouble. See a dietician after you talk with your physician. You can't do it all at once and a crash diet like this will give you a huge rebound effect of even more weight. Slow and steady gets and keeps results. Please don't start this diet until your medication is adjusted. Low sugar readings are deadly, you know.
3 stone is: 14x3= 42 US pounds. The easiest method is to rediuce 450 calories from your normal diet. So two cans of cola or one and half donuts. It isn't much, but will make a difference because you stop gaining. If you are really into counting calories, be sure to eat breakfast. Don't skip it. Move your calories down to 1200 or so. Basically people who reduce white flour, sugars and artificial sweeteners will lose weight. (Artificial sweeteners tend to cause weight gain because the person's brain says it needs more to eat.)
Again, we are not physicians. But we do know a thing or two and hope you will ask more questions here. Be sure to get exercise. Start with walking with a friend. You can do this. Karen
You should not start any diet without consulting with your doctor. You are on medication that is based on your caloric intake now. I hope you don't plan on doing anything if you're on that low of calories, its not enough to keep you moving and can lead to a dangerous condition called acidosis.
Related topics
diabetes, type 2, metformin, diet, calories
Further information
- Metformin uses and safety info
- Metformin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Metformin (detailed)
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