Berberine is a natural compound present in several plant species including barberry, goldenseal and Oregon grape. It has been used for ages in traditional medicine, including Ayurveda and Chinese for its umpteen therapeutic benefits. A few studies have revealed that this potent compound supports weight loss, regulates blood sugar and safeguards against various chronic health conditions.
In recent times, berberine supplements have gained popularity for their potential to support overall health and well-being. Dive into this article to explore the uses, health benefits, and potential side effects of berberine supplements.
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What Is Berberine?
Berberine is an alkaloid compound present in the barks, twigs, rhizomes, roots, and stems of numerous plants like barberry, orange grape, and tree turmeric. This bioactive compound has been used as an antimicrobial, antiprotozoal, and antidiarrheal element in the Ayurvedic system of medicine and other traditional medicine. Several pieces of evidence have examined berberine’s effects on markers of blood sugar, blood lipids, liver function and anthropometric parameters in individuals with metabolic conditions.
Also Read: Goat’s Rue: 5 Stupendous Health Benefits of This Potent Herbal Plant
How Does It Work?
The potential effects of the berberine compound have been tested in several studies
One of the primary roles of berberine compound is to activate an enzyme inside cells called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). This enzyme holds a significant role in controlling metabolism and energy levels in the cells. In addition, it also controls other molecules inside the cells and may affect which genes are turned on or off, this could eventually help safeguard against several chronic medical conditions.
Health Benefits of Berberine Supplements
Control Diabetes
Berberine is well-studied for its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels. It activates an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which plays a main role in glucose metabolism. It also helps the body use insulin more effectively, leading to better blood sugar control. This makes berberine a popular supplement for managing conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Also Read: Diabetes: 5 Incredible Herbs For Controlling Blood Sugar Levels- Infographic
Support Weight Loss
Berberine has been shown to promote weight loss by triggering metabolic function. It helps reduce excess fat accumulated in the body and can support healthy weight management when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Maintain Lipid Profile
Berberine is also used to manage lipid profiles under control. Taking this supplement has been beneficial to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol, contributing to better cardiovascular health and heart function.
Gut Health
Thanks to its antimicrobial traits, which make it effective in treating gastrointestinal infections. It can help manage conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) support the overall gut microbiome and improve the digestion process.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Berberine's anti-inflammatory traits make it valuable in managing chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. It helps reduce inflammation in the body and ease joint and muscle pain.
Liver Health
Berberine promotes liver function by reducing fat accumulation in the liver. This supplement can be valuable for individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), as it clears the excess fat out of the system and manages lipid levels.
Cancer-Fighting Actions
A few studies suggest that berberine may have anti-cancer properties, particularly in slowing the growth of certain types of cancer cells. However, more research is needed in this area.
Side Effects of Berberine Supplements
Berberine is generally considered safe and well-tolerated for most people. However, it can cause side effects, especially when taken in high doses or for extended periods. Some potential side effects include:
The most common side effects are related to digestion, including constipation, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. These are usually mild and can be managed by adjusting the dosage.
Berberine can lower blood pressure, which may be beneficial for some but could cause dizziness or light-headedness in others, particularly those already taking blood pressure medications.
Berberine may interact with certain medications, including those for diabetes, blood pressure, and blood thinners. It can enhance the effects of these drugs, leading to complications.
In people with diabetes, berberine's blood sugar-lowering effects can sometimes lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially if taken alongside other glucose-lowering medications.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid berberine supplements, as there is limited research on its safety in these populations.
Conclusion
Berberine supplements offer a wide range of health incentives, particularly for blood sugar control, weight management, and cardiovascular health. Before starting berberine or any other supplement, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor )
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.762654/full
Berberine, a Herbal Metabolite in the Metabolic Syndrome: The Risk Factors, Course, and Consequences of the Disease
Anna Och,1,* Marek Och,2 Renata Nowak,1 Dominika Podgórska,3 and Rafał Podgórski4
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8874997/
