Berberine has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for 2500 years to treat many health issues, including intestinal problems, blood sugar balancing, bacterial infections and inflammation. Berberine is an alkaloid found in plants such as goldenseal and Oregon grape.
Berberine’s antimicrobial properties in the digestive system make it a unique supplement to use in enhancing the microbiome. By inhibiting the ability of bacteria to attach to human cells, berberine helps protect against many bacterial infections, especially in the throat, intestines, and urinary tract.
A clinical trial published in Metabolism found that berberine “works just as well as the top-selling drug for Type 2 diabetes, metformin. The study conducted on individuals with Type 2 diabetes found that berberine significantly lowered blood glucose and hemoglobin levels. It is not effective in lowering blood glucose in Type 1 diabetes.
Berberine also may help with lowering LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. A study published by The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that berberine lowered triglycerides by 35.9%, LDL cholesterol by 21%, and total cholesterol by 18%! The study also found that berberine lowered blood pressure and increased weight and fat loss.
In a double-blind placebo-controlled study participants with congestive heart failure who received 1.2 to 2 grams of berberine daily showed significant improvement in a 6 minute walking distance with no side effects.
Other studies show that berberine may improve bone density, protect against acute brain damage, and may reduce cancer cells spreading. Pregnant women should avoid large doses of berberine.
For further assistance please speak with a Natural Living associate. We carry Enzymedica and
Solaray brands as well as Center for Functional Medicine brand which offers the best value in price. Recommended dose is 500mg to 2000 mg a day in divided doses and best taken with a meal.
