Based on NIH | Do eggs interact with metformin, and is it safe to eat them while taking it?

Eggs do not interact with metformin, and they are generally safe to eat while taking it. There is no evidence that eggs change how metformin works or increase its side effects, and official prescribing information does not list eggs, protein, or specific foods as interactants. ^{[1] [2]}

Key point

• Metformin can be taken with food, and many people find that taking it with a meal reduces stomach upset. ^[1]
• Food in general can change metformin’s absorption profile, but this effect is not harmful and is expected; it does not single out eggs specifically. ^[1]

How food affects metformin

For the immediate‑release form, food tends to lower the peak level (Cmax) and slightly delay the time it takes to reach that peak, while modestly reducing overall exposure (AUC). ^[1] This is a known effect with a standard meal and is not dangerous; clinicians often advise taking metformin with meals to improve gastrointestinal tolerance. ^[1]

Extended‑release formulations behave a bit differently: with some ER tablets, the overall exposure (AUC) may increase when taken with food, without meaningful changes in peak or timing, and both high‑fat and low‑fat meals show similar patterns. ^{[3] [4]} These expected food effects do not point to any specific problem with eggs or protein foods. ^{[3] [4]}

Are eggs a problem food?

No specific interaction between eggs and metformin has been identified, and official drug references do not warn against eating eggs with metformin. ^{[1] [2]} In clinical pharmacology studies, the presence of a mixed or high‑fat meal alters metformin absorption parameters as described above, but this is a general “food effect,” not an egg‑specific concern. ^{[5] [6]}

Practical guidance on eating eggs with metformin

• It is reasonable to eat eggs as part of a balanced meal when taking metformin, especially if this helps reduce stomach upset. ^[1]
• If you use immediate‑release metformin and experience nausea, taking the dose during or right after a meal (which may include eggs) can be more comfortable. ^[1]
• For extended‑release metformin, taking it with the evening meal is common practice and compatible with eggs or other protein foods. ^{[3] [4]}

Other nutrition considerations with metformin

• Vitamin B12: Long‑term metformin use can lower vitamin B12 levels in a subset of people, likely by interfering with absorption; periodic B12 checks can be considered, especially if you have anemia or neuropathy symptoms. ^{[7] [8]} This is unrelated to eggs specifically, although eggs do contain some B12 as part of a balanced diet. ^{[7] [8]}

Bottom line

• There is no known harmful interaction between eggs and metformin. ^{[1] [2]}
• Taking metformin with meals including meals containing eggs is generally acceptable and may help with stomach comfort. ^[1]
• Food can modestly change absorption of metformin, but this is expected and not specific to eggs. ^{[1] [3] [4]}

If you notice new or bothersome stomach symptoms after your dose, taking metformin with your meal (whether or not it includes eggs) is a reasonable adjustment, and discussing persistent symptoms with your clinician is advisable.