What is berberine? 

Berberine is a naturally occurring compound extracted from several plants including goldenseal, Oregon grape, tree turmeric, and European barberry. Berberine is a bitter-tasting and bright yellow-colored chemical. 

Berberine has been called “nature's ozempic” but why? 

Berberine has been shown to help with PCOS, and type 2 diabetes since it’s been found to help reduce blood sugar levels, hemoglobin A1c levels, and increase insulin secretion while improving insulin sensitivity! Berberine acts similar to Ozempic because they both affect the AMPK pathway by activating it, and increase GLP-1 levels. Activation of the AMPK pathway helps to manage your weight, because it stimulates energy generating processes. An increase in GLP-1 can help stimulate insulin secretion, and prevent the hungry hormone - also known as glucagon. GLP-1’s help to keep you full for longer and helps control hunger, helping with weight management! 

Not only is berberine good for controlling high blood sugar, it has also been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Studies were conducted that show that consuming berberine supplements have led to a decrease in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (aka the “bad cholesterol”), and triglycerides. Research suggests that the improved lipid levels could be caused from an increased population of healthy bacteria, also known as short chain fatty acid producing bacteria that can influence blood glucose and lipid levels. 

Are there any dangers of berberine? 

So far, berberine seems like a perfect supplement but there are always some drawbacks and things to think about. Although it has been shown to be helpful in many ways, studies still need to be conducted to assess the effectiveness, benefits, and consequences of berberine. Berberine should not be taken if you're pregnant, and it may increase testosterone in men but decrease testosterone in women so studies need to be conducted to look into the different effects it can have on each gender. Common side effects include diarrhea, constipation, gas, and upset stomach, and is especially reported with long term use. It's suggested to take berberine short term, and not many long term studies have been done, but some show it could kill healthy bacteria. So, if you consider taking berberine, do so while also focusing on lifestyle changes that can create even more drastic effects on your blood sugar levels, weight management, lipid levels and overall quality of life!