The Search For A Metformin Alternative
Currently, the main option for treating diabetes is the use of a drug called metformin. However, not all patients can take the drug. This is because many diabetes patients have reduced kidney functioning and taking this medication can increase their risk to lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis is the unhealthy buildup of lactic acid which lead to abdominal discomfort, muscle pains, etc.
Looking for metformin alternatives has been one of the main objectives of scientists studying the use of the broccoli compound. After various studies, researchers have narrowed down about 1,720 genes to a network of 50 linked genes that has together resulted in the increase of blood glucose level.
Researchers then ranked an entire database of existing drug compounds based on their ability to reverse diabetes using a mathematical modeling program. Sulforaphane, found in broccoli, has the highest ranking.
