It is often sold as an herbal dietary supplement.
However, more research is necessary to fully understand its long-term effects and safety.
Some people call berberine “nature’s Ozempic” due to its purported weight loss effects.
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Experts at Ohio State University note that the studies do not confirm that berberine is effective.
Additionally, lifestyle changessuch as diet and exerciseare necessary in combination with berberine for any potential benefits.
The NCCIH emphasizes that more high-quality research is necessary to fully understand berberines effects on weight loss.
Can Help Control Blood Sugar
A 2022 review examined the results of 37 studies involving over 3,000 people.
These benefits were noted without causinghypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
A 2017 review of studies looked at berberine for high cholesterol.
Berberine plus statins also had beneficial effects.
Also, combining berberine with lifestyle changes was more effective in lowering blood pressure than lifestyle changes alone.
These studies used a dose of 0.9 grams (g) to 1.2 g of berberine per day.
Maintaining a stable gut microbiota is important to health.
When the balance of gut bacteria is disrupted, it can lead to inflammatory conditions and infections.
Berberine’s effects on many conditions are thought to be related to its effects on gut health.
Research has found that berberine may improve unhealthy gut microbiota.
Can Support Liver Health
Research has shown that berberine can protect the liver.
Studies found that berberine affects how certain genes in the liver control blood sugar and fat metabolism.
Research is ongoing to find ways to improve its absorption.
Berberine is not a substitute for the treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider.
However, it should never replace your recommended treatment plan.
This includes prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.
Your provider can advise you of any potential interactions.
Do not take berberine with the drug cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant).
As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
Whenchoosing a supplement, look for products independently tested or certified by organizations such asNSF,U.S.
This is because it may not be safe for everyone and can interact with certain medications.
Berberine is not a substitute for prescribed medications or treatments recommended by your healthcare provider.
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2020;38:43-49. doi:10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.04.010
Ohio State University.Does berberine really help with weight loss?
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Berberine and weight loss: what you should probably know.
2021;42:101287. doi:10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101287.
Thursby E, Juge N.Introduction to the human gut microbiota.Biochem J.
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