Berberine is a bioactive compound found naturally in certain plants, including a group of shrubs called Berberis. It has a more than 400 year history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and has been associated with several potential health benefits.
Bioactive: having an effect on a living organism
For example,
Blood Sugar Regulation
Berberine has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It works through various mechanisms:
- increasing insulin sensitivity
- promoting insulin production
- regulating metabolism
- increasing glycolysis, or the breakdown of glucose
- reducing glucose production in the liver
- increasing nitric oxide (NO) production, which helps widen arteries
- slowing carbohydrate absorption from the gut
A 2022 review in Molecules supports some of these findings, and reminds that more research is needed.
Weight Loss
Early research indicates that berberine may help reduce body fat. A small clinical trial that focused treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, found that those who took berberine every day for three months experienced significant weight loss.” Berberine affects glucose which regulates fat and protein metabolism.
Heart Health
Berberine may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering lipid levels in the blood. Our blood contains fatty substances (lipids) that affect heart health. Having high levels of some of the lipids — cholesterol and triglycerides — can increase the risk of heart disease.
High blood pressure is also a heart health risk. Research indicates that using both berberine and hypertension medication lowered blood pressure more than medication alone.
Berberine may have a positive effect on cardiac tissue by potentially improving cardiac muscle strength, and more.
Gut
An imbalance in gut bacteria — more bad bacteria than good — is associated with many diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Berberine may help balance or regulate intestinal health by reducing harmful bacteria and encouraging good bacteria to grow. It also provides your gut with protection.
Weight Management: A healthy gut microbiome can support weight management. Berberine’s positive impact upon gut microbiome may be a key component in its support of weight management.
Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant & Other
Berberine has anti-inflammatory effects. While berberine’s anti-inflammatory properties have been studied at length, how it works is not yet understood.
A 2018 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology concludes that berberine’s antioxidant effects are highly potent, comparable to vitamin C. Antioxidants help avoid the damage free radicals can cause to cells.
Berberine may also have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, may improve digestive health and more.
CAUTION: Remember that while berberine shows promise, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and optimal dosages. As always consult with your Licensed Health Care Professionals. Our content is meant to inform or is the view of others. Research wisely and choose your highest and best.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/berberine-diabetes#berberine-blood-sugar
https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/berberine
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/berberine-for-insulin-resistance-weight-loss (See this source for their dosage information.)
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