Metformin is generally a safe and effective treatment for type 2 diabetes. However, it can cause side effects, and some people may prefer to manage the condition through lifestyle and dietary changes.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body's cells stop responding to insulin appropriately. As a result, levels of glucose, or sugar, in the blood rise too high.

Certain lifestyle factors can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, including:

• being overweight or obese
• engaging in low levels of physical activity
• eating a poor diet