I've been on met for about 6 weeks at the suggestion of my endo (whom I see for thyroid problems). I was actually hesistant - I hate to take something just for weight loss when I've always *assumed* it's just my fault. But when I finally went majorly hypothyroid (after being hyper years ago), I gained so much weight. After 7-8 years and finally going out of the "normal" lab range for thyroid, I was referred to a new endo. (She's great...she is Russian and it's interesting to see how the approach of that practice is different from others).
So far I've lost 10 pounds without any change in diet, exercise, etc.. I also have IBS and so didn't want to change everything at once for fear I'd be in the bathroom 24/7! I started on 500 for a week, then 1000 for two, 1500 for two, and then next week I'll be at 2000. Labs don't show any IR problems, etc., I've never had a fertility or cycle problem (except related to thyroid), but she thinks I still show some hallmarks of PCOS/IR - weight location, some hair issues, skin tags, etc..
Besides the minor weight loss (hopefully more later!), I have also noticed a marked reduction in PMS. Mine is usually terrible - what a nice surprise that has been!
I've had gastrointestinal issues with gas, bloating, and diarrhea with the metformin, especially if I'm not careful about "heavy" foods, but with the IBS it's not a big change for me. In fact, the met actually helps regulate the IBS a bit due to timing. I do notice increased hunger when I first up the met each time, but that goes away and I find that it then just regulates my appetite - I know when I'm hungry, get full quickly, and then cannot eat until I am truly hungry again. A miracle after always being in a state of hunger...
I also have a problem sometimes with water retention ( I have some other health issues which contribute to that occasionally) and take meds for blood pressure, but I've also noticed that since taking met I don't seem to swell as much. Maybe I'm just imagining it, but I'm going to pay closer attention.
So, I've had some weight loss and am hoping that as I add dietary changes and increase exercise - well, I'm eager to see the results! Good luck to everyone. |