Berberine, an alkaloid compound found in plants, has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda, the traditional health system of India, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It’s becoming increasingly popular due to its potential in supporting healthy metabolism of blood sugar.
Berberine Sources
Berberine is found in the barberry family (the most sustainable source), Oregon grape root, and goldenseal, an additional source that is also the least sustainable due to overharvesting issues across North America.
What the Science Shows
In addition to supporting healthy metabolism of blood sugar, studies have shown berberine also greatly benefits metabolism, healthy blood pressure, and blood cholesterol. In clinical research, berberine exerted positive changes in
- Blood sugar levels
- Blood cholesterol levels
- Gut health
Bioavailability of Berberine
However, bioavailability is a serious issue with raw or unprocessed berberine, as absorption in the small intestine is notoriously low. Plus, the recommended dosage can be intolerable for the gastrointestinal system.
Because berberine is poorly absorbed, enhanced delivery formats—such as phytosome complexes—have been developed to improve bioavailability and tolerability. A phytosome combines a natural ingredient, such as berberine, with a phospholipid (a type of fat molecule). The phospholipid makes the active ingredient more accessible to the body. It also makes berberine easier to absorb.
Berberine & the Gut Microbiome
In studies, berberine shows promise in modulating the human gut microbiome. As a potential prebiotic, berberine’s antimicrobial properties may help reduce harmful bacteria while creating a hospitable environment for helpful microbes, including Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila). Low levels of this bacterium have been linked to metabolic and weight issues, as well as chronic inflammation.
A.muciniphila stimulates the intestinal mucin lining, to maintain its integrity and protective qualities. Studies indicate it may impact small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and improve the quality of life for those living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), based on self-reported assessments.
Blood Sugar & Cholesterol
Clinical trial results point to berberine’s beneficial impact on healthy levels of cholesterol and blood sugar.
AMPK is an enzyme that can be produced only by the body. It serves as an energy sensor, synching metabolic changes for optimal energy production and storage. Berberine has been shown to stimulate AMPK, which affects both the body’s use of glucose for short- and long-term energy and the metabolism of cholesterol. It helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream and inhibits the formation of lipids by the liver. Studies show berberine can increase levels of beneficial HDL cholesterol while lowering triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol.
The hormone insulin moves glucose from the bloodstream to cells, where it is used for energy production. Berberine has been shown to support healthy insulin sensitivity for cells, as well as to promote satiety and healthy blood sugar levels. In studies of the phytosome form, subjects reported a positive impact on body composition, including changes in adipose tissue distribution.
Dosage
Berberine shouldn’t be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding without checking first with your physician. Berberine may interact with prescription medications, most notably metformin, with which it shares a similar mechanism of action. Berberine can prolong bleeding time. If you are on medications or considering surgery, always discuss any and all supplements you are taking with your clinician.
