Berberine is compound found in several plants that when extracted may yield several impressive health benefits. Berberine has been used for thousands of years in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Modern research is now validating these claims and sciences suggests that the supplementation of Berberine may:
- Lower blood sugar (glucose) levels
- Lower cholesterol
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve weight loss
Berberine is found in plants such as Baarberry, Oregon grape goldenseal, goldthread, phellodendron, and tree turmeric. The taste of Berberine is extremely biter and yellow in colour.
Berberine may be very effective in lowering blood sugar (glucose) levels. In a large meta-analysis of 46 studies, the researchers report that Berberine supplementation can significantly lower Hb1Ac in people with type-2 diabetes. It's because of this effect, Berberine is often compared to a common drug prescribed to patients with type-2 diabetes called Metformin.
Studies have found Berberine can immediately take effect when lowering blood sugar (glucose). This 2008 study reported significant decreases in fasting blood glucose within just 1 week.
Berberine may help lower LDL cholesterol, lower triglycerides and lower apolipoprotein B particles. Whilst LDL and total cholesterol are simplistically mentioned as being ‘bad’, latest research suggest that one of the real culprits of heart disease could be high apolipoprotein B (Apo B) levels. Dr Peter Attia MD does a fantastic job in explaining the cholesterol landscape, why there’s no ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol and why we should care more about Apo B.
Berberine has been shown to significantly decrease Apolipoprotein B levels by 15-29% in this 4 week study . This is significant as other options to reduce Apo B are limited. In the same study, Berberine was also found to reduce LDL cholesterol by up to 25%. This works by inhibiting an enzyme called PCSK9, which leads to increased clearance of LDL from the bloodstream.
A meta-analysis of 12 studies found that Berberine significantly reduced body weight and improved BMI. These effects could be attributed to Berberine's activation of the AMPK pathway, which in turn increases energy (calorie) expenditure.
As with any weight loss strategy, a long consistent plan will yield the best results. The studies in the meta-analysis above lasted between 8 and 24 weeks. We can suggest that some results may be seen within that time frame.
Berberine has a fantastic safety record. None of the large volume of studies have reported any major safety concerns. However, a rare subset of people may experience:
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
You should avoid this supplement if you are taking Cyclosporine. Berberine may decrease the rate in how the body breaks down cyclosporine.
Most of the studies referenced use Berberine between the dosages between 500mg - 1500mg per day. Because of poor absorption, dosages are often split up into multiple 500mg servings to maintain a steady level of Berberine in the body.
There is no data on what time of day to take Berberine. Feel free to experiment with timing. However, it is advised to be consistent with the timing day-to-day. As with most supplements, taking Berberine with meals will help with the absorption process.
Berberine may be a great natural supplement for anyone looking to control their blood sugar (gluecose) level. Berberine may also help you loose weight and decrease cholesterol. Most impressive, Berberine has been shown to reduce Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) levels, which have been shown to be casually related to heart disease. Berberine's safety record is very good with little risk of side effects for most people. Dosages of up to 500mg taken 3 times a day is the recommended strategy.