Berberine 101: Weight Loss, Blood Sugar, and Longevity

Berberine 101

Berberine is a supplement that is gaining popularity due to new clinical research discovering its powerful ability to reduce blood sugar, aid in weight management, promote healthy cholesterol levels, and even extend lifespan in animals.

In this article, we will explore:

• What is berberine?
• Berberine for weight loss
• Berberine for blood sugar
• Berberine for cholesterol
• Berberine for longevity
• Dosing of berberine

What is Berberine?

Berberine is a naturally-occurring compound found in a variety of plants such as goldenseal, Oregon grape, and barberry. Berberine has been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions.

Recently, there has been an increasing number of studies conducted on berberine, which has shown promise to enhance weight loss, aid in the management of blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and promote longevity.

Benefits of Berberine

Enhances weight loss: A 2020 research review including 12 randomized trials examined the effects of berberine on weight management. The researchers concluded berberine supplementation significantly reduced waist circumference and BMI (body mass index). 

Research shows that expanding waist circumference is associated with increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, a high BMI index may be the cause of nearly 500,000 new cancer cases each year according to some studies. 

Regulates Blood Sugar: Berberine is often referred to as "nature's Metformin" due its potent anti-diabetic properties. According to new research published in Gut Microbes journal, supplementing with berberine (+ a probiotic) for 3 months reduced fasting blood sugar levels up to 30%! 

Additional research shows that berberine supplementation may reduce post prandial blood glucose (blood sugar levels after meals) by up to 30% as well. 

Lastly, berberine supplementation was shown to reduce Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C). by approximately 23%. A study involving 11,000 nondiabetic participants found that high HbA1C levels are strongly associated with an increased risk of heart disease and death.

Supports healthy cholesterol levels. Research shows that berberine is one of the most effective supplements for improving blood lipids. Studies have found that berberine supplementation significantly reduces total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, all of which are key contributors to heart health issues.

Additionally, berberine supplementation was found to increase HDL cholesterol levels (the good cholesterol!).

Promotes longevity. When it comes to promoting longevity and longer, healthier life, there are a few markers in the body that are considered of extreme importance. One of these markers is AMPK, which is referred to as the metabolic master switch. AMPK plays a critical role in blood sugar regulation, fat storage vs fat burning, metabolism, and cellular health. 

Research shows that activating the AMPK enzyme extends lifespan of animal species by up to 30%! Berberine has been shown to effectively increase AMPK, making it a powerful longevity supplement!

Safety and dosing

Interested in trying Berberine?

View our full catalog of berberine supplements here:

berberine - Valley Integrative Pharmacy

To speak with our Naturopath, Zach, to discuss which berberine supplement is right for you, schedule a free discovery call with him here:

https://calendly.com/valleypharmacy/zach

About the author

Joe Condora is a nutrition researcher with over 10 years experience in the supplement industry. With a Bachelor’s (and soon-to-be) Master’s Degree in Nutrition & Human Performance, Joe helps personalize supplement protocols for individuals looking to optimize health and longevity. When he’s not reading and writing nutrition articles, Joe enjoys spending time outside with his wife and three children.