Berberine is often called Nature's Ozempic because of its impact on blood sugar regulation and metabolism. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that one cannot replace the other. This article will provide a brief overview of Berberine.
Ozempic is a subcutaneous injection medication produced by a pharmaceutical company and comes with a black box warning regarding the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. The accompanying leaflet states that it should be used in conjunction with diet and exercise to enhance glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes or to lower the likelihood of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and existing cardiovascular disease. The package insert contains information spanning approximately 21 pages.
Berberine, a natural compound present in the root, bark, and fruit of plants like goldenseal, European barberry, Oregon grape, goldthread, and tree turmeric, has a beneficial impact on the gut microbiome, which is crucial for metabolism. Berberine exerts its effects through various mechanisms in the body and can induce alterations in cellular functions.
For thousands of years, traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine have utilized it. Research has been conducted on its impact on blood sugar regulation, weight control, liver disease, and various health issues. It may aid in treating everything from canker sores and liver disease, combating bacteria, lowering high cholesterol levels, enhancing heart function, reducing inflammation, and regulating blood sugar utilization. Recently, it has become popular as a weight loss aid.
STUDIES
Multiple studies show various positive effects. Berberine is a supplement and the evidence is not 100% conclusive.
A 2006 publication indicates that Berberine appears to activate AMP-activated protein kinase, which can help regulate how the body uses blood sugar to treat diabetes and related issues like obesity and high cholesterol.
A 2014 research study shows promise as a potential diabetes treatment.
A 2014 meta-analysis found that berberine combined with lifestyle changes worked better to lower blood glucose than lifestyle changes alone.
A 2015 study found that berberine can damage the DNA and protein of certain bacteria. It also says Berberine has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects.
A 2015 report suggests that berberine works similarly to Metformin (prescription to treat type 2 diabetes) and may have the ability to change the bacteria in the gut (which could help both obesity and diabetes).
A 2017 study in animals and humans indicates that berberine has an LDL cholesterol and triglyceride-lowering effect.
A 2018 study observed that berberine may activate brown adipose tissue (the tissue that helps the body turn food into body heat) to help treat obesity and metabolic syndrome.
A 2019 literature review indicated that berberine was better than a placebo at lowering blood sugar.
A 2020 meta-analysis found benefits in body weight and metabolic parameters without significant elevation in liver enzymes.
A 2022 study found it helped inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (the bacteria that causes staph infections).
Research from 2022 suggests berberine has anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2022 review of 18 studies that examined the effect of berberine on body weight and 23 studies that examined its impact on body mass index (BMI) found significant decreases in both weight and BMI.
Berberine might be an alternative if you are looking for something but do not want a pharmaceutical product.
Research shows berberine may:
be Antimicrobial
regulate metabolism and blood sugar
help the body use insulin more efficiently
lower blood glucose levels
have effects on weight management
decrease appetite
help metabolic conditions
improve gut health
SHOP HERE: Heart & Body Naturals Berberine ACV is a proprietary plant-based blend that assists with natural energy, healthy weight management, reducing inflammation, stabilizing blood glucose levels, eliminating cravings, boosting metabolism, improving gut health, and more. A full-size package with 30 or a sample-size package with 7 servings is available.
BERBERINE PRECAUTIONS AND GUIDELINES
Follow the dosing guidelines according to the dietary supplement package, as there is no standard dosing.
If you are taking certain medications, there could be interactions. Speak to your doctor before taking berberine. Medicines for diabetes, sedatives, or high blood pressure, and ones that change the liver or slow blood clotting, are known to have interactions.
If you are pregnant, nursing, or under doctor's care, consult your healthcare provider before use. It is likely unsafe to take berberine while pregnant or breastfeeding. This product is not for infants or children.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Always do your research for your specific body needs.
This is for educational purposes only. The FDA has not evaluated the information and is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not intended as a substitute for a qualified healthcare professional's advice or medical care before undertaking any dietary or lifestyle changes.
REFERENCES:
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1126/berberine
2006 Publication: https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/55/8/2256/12348/Berberine-a-Natural-Plant-Product-Activates-AMP
2022 Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36178801/
2014 Research: https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/10.1139/bcb-2014-0107#.XS8c8JNKhao
2014 Meta-analysis: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S037887411400871X
2015 Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4503092/
2015 Report: https://www.nature.com/articles/srep14405
2017 Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5478784/
2018 Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6291723/
2019 Literature Review: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/endocrj/66/1/66_EJ18-0109/_html/-char/en
2020 Meta-analysis: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2405457720300802
2022 Research: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36121315/
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/berberine-and-weight-loss-what-you-need-to-know
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