Social media users claim berberine can lower blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and even promote weight loss.
Some even say it could be a viable option for people who can’t access Ozempic or Wegovy.
Is berberine really an effective weight loss supplement?
Photo Illustration by Lecia Landis for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Is Berberine Really ‘Nature’s Ozempic’?
Its absolutely notnatures Ozempicand does not work like Ozempic, which is a GLP-1 inhibitor, Kroon said.
GLP-1 medications also help slow gastric emptying, which can reduce appetite and lead to weight loss.
Berberine doesnt work anything like that; it is a completely different mechanism," Kroon said.
Can Berberine Help With Weight Loss?
There’s no real evidence to show that berberine is the equivalent of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
Still, a bit of research on berberines effectiveness for weight loss and diabetes does exist.
More research is needed to draw meaningful conclusions about whether berberine is effective for weight loss.
Is Berberine Safe?
Berberine does appear to be safe for adults to use in the short term.
You could be spending a good $50+ out of pocket.
