Berberine benefits, like reducing blood sugar and managing cholesterol and triglyceride levels, are made possible because its potent antiinflammatory and antiglycemic properties. This medicinal plant is a natural phytotherapeutic that can be taken to treat or prevent worsening of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or other cardiovascular disease.
Berberine appears to contain components that promote weight loss and increase the body’s capacity to burn fat. It can therefore be very useful in weight loss diets.
Berberine is a product of plant nitrogenase that acts as a natural phytotherapeutic. It is extracted from plants, like Phellodendron chinense and Rhizoma coptidis. It is important to speak with a doctor or medicinal plant specialist before taking this supplement to ensure it is safe for use.
Health benefits
Berberine benefits may include:
1. Managing diabetes
Some studies show that berberine supplementation in type 2 diabetics and people with metabolic syndrome can help to normalize blood sugar levels and optimize insulin functioning. This hormone is important for the transport of glucose to cells and for keeping sugar levels in the blood within normal ranges.
This effect is similar to the action of medications used to control diabetes, therefore berberine may be used to optimize the effect of diabetes medication, as directed by a doctor.
2. Promoting weight loss
Berberine contains action that increases the capacity for cells to produce energy. It stimulate fat loss and also reduces the production of fat cells in the body.
This happens because berberine improve hormones that regulate fat, like insulin, leptin and adiponectin. This substance also reduces gene expression that stimulates fat accumulation in the body.
3. Reducing cholesterol
In addition to weight loss, berberine also shows great results in reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This can help to prevent cardiovascular diseases, like atherosclerosis, heart attacks and stroke.
When used together with medications and a balanced diet, berberine can help to increase HDL cholesterol levels, which can have a cardioprotective effect.
4. Protecting the brain
Because it is a potent anti-inflammatory, berberine can help to protect brain cells from conditions like memory loss and Alzheimer’s. It protects the neurons in patients who have suffered strokes and can reduce related sequelae.
5. Regulating intestinal flora
Berberine has an antimicrobial effect that acts on the intestines by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. It can also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, which improve intestinal flow, protect the intestines and produce substances that help to regulate blood sugar levels.
6. Controlling blood pressure
Berberine is also able to manage blood pressure levels, as it promotes vasodilation. It can be indicated to compliment the treatment of high blood pressure.
Can berberine lead to weight loss?
Some studies [1,2,3] show that berberine promote weight loss, as it helps with fat burning, reduces fat cell growth, and reduces the accumulation of belly fat.
In addition, berberine can help reduce C-reactive protein levels in the body, which is an inflammatory marker that is noted to be increased in patients who are obese or overweight.
However, more studies are needed to support this benefit.
It is important to note that taking berberine does not substitute a balanced diet or an active lifestyle.
Recommended dose
In general, the recommended dose of berberine is 500 mg, three times per day, 30 minutes before meals. However, it is important to consult a doctor about the therapeutic dose that may be beneficial for you.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects of taking berberine are:
- Nausea or vomiting;
- Abdominal pain;
- Excessive intestinal gas or diarrhea;
- Headache or muscle pain;
- Dizziness or fainting.
Berberine can also cause severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, which require urgent medical attention.
Taking berberine in higher than recommended doses can lead to low blood pressure, slow heart rate, or abnormal heart rhythm.
Contraindications
Berberine is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it can cross the placenta and affect the baby's developmen. It can also be passed to the baby through breast milk.
Berberine should not be taken by children under 18 or anyone who is allergic to this supplement.
Berberine should also be avoided by anyone taking cyclosporine.
People who take medication for high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, heart problems or who currently take anticoagulants, antibiotics or sedatives should speak to their doctor before starting berberine.