Daily Archives: May 12, 2017

The Impressive Health Benefits of Berberine

BerberineJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

For those who have never heard of berberine, prepare to be impressed by the therapeutic properties of this natural alkaloid compound. Revered for centuries in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine, berberine alkaloid extracts are well known for their significant and broad pharmacological activities, including immune enhancing, atheroprotective, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antioxidant, anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally utilized for the natural treatment of intestinal infections, digestive diseases and diabetes, berberine alkaloid extracts are found in the roots, rhizomes and stem bark of plants that include Oregon grape, goldenseal, goldthread, tree turmeric and phellodendron.

Even more impressive, clinical studies have shown that berberine has glucose and cholesterol lowering properties as well. Numerous studies have shown that berberine improved endothelial dysfunction, increased glucose utilization, decreased glucose absorption in intestinal cells, significantly decreased triglycerides, increased HDL cholesterol and reduced LDL and total cholesterol, an effect similar to statin medications. In diabetic patients, berberine was shown to reduce glycemia and plasma cholesterol. In those with metabolic syndrome, berberine improved lipid and glucose profiles, and decreased body mass index and waist circumference.

Twenty-seven randomized controlled clinical trials concluded that berberine has therapeutic effects on type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia and hypertension with no serious side effects. In the treatment of hypertension, hypoglycemia, and high cholesterol, the study found that berberine along with lifestyle intervention tended to lower blood pressure, blood lipids and blood sugar more than a placebo or lifestyle intervention alone. Although additional randomized controlled studies are warranted, these findings suggest that berberine might be considered a potential therapeutic approach as a first line treatment for hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension over an extended time period.

Along with resveratrol, berberine is one of the few known compounds to activate adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Also known as the “metabolic master switch,” AMPK resides in the body’s cells where it plays an important role in regulating metabolism, inducing a series of events that are involved in maintaining energy homeostasis. AMPK regulates biological activities that normalize lipid, glucose and energy imbalances. When AMPK regulated pathways are dysfunctional, it can trigger symptoms of hyperglycemia, diabetes, lipid abnormalities and energy imbalances. Well-functioning AMPK helps to shift energy towards cellular repair and maintenance and helps the body return to homeostasis.

To take full advantage of Berberine’s blood glucose and lipid regulation, berberine should be taken with a meal or shortly thereafter. To keep blood levels stable, Berberine can be taken up to three times daily for a maximum intake of 1500 mg per day. Therapeutic properties support:

  • The uptake of glucose into the cells
  • Improved insulin sensitivity
  • Reduced glucose production in the liver
  • Regulation of energy balance to help control obesity and stimulate weight loss
  • Improved insulin and leptin function
  • Reduced LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • Improved HDL cholesterol levels
  • Improved metabolic function

As a promising health-promoting substance, berberine has powerful effects on various health aspects. If you are pregnant, taking medication or have a health condition, please consult a healthcare practitioner before starting any supplement regimen.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other fine quality products to promote good health and function:

Berberine 500 mgBerberine 500 mg by Integrative Therapeutics: One capsule provides 500 mg of Berberine HCL in support of metabolic function, and healthy blood sugar and insulin metabolism. Sugar, salt, yeast, wheat, gluten, corn, soy, dairy, artificial ingredient, preservative free, vegetarian formulation.

Berberine HCLBerberine HCL by Bioclinic Naturals: One capsule provides 500 mg of Berberine HCL in support of healthy glucose metabolism, healthy blood lipids and cardiovascular health. Dairy, starch, sugar, wheat, gluten, yeast, soy, corn, egg, fish, shellfish, salt, tree nut, artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO, vegan formulation.

Berberine Balance ...Berberine Balance by Douglas Laboratories®: This blended formula includes berberine, alpha lipoic acid and grape seed extract in support of healthy blood sugar and cardiovascular health. Yeast, wheat, gluten, soy protein, dairy, corn, sodium, sugar, starch, artificial ingredient free, vegan formulation.

Berberine SynergyBerberine Synergy™ by Designs for Health: This product supplies 400 mg of berberine plus 100 mg of alpha lipoic acid per capsule in support of optimal blood sugar and insulin levels and cardiovascular and liver health. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Berberine 500 mg

Berberine 500 mg by Vital Nutrients: One capsule provides 500 mg of berberine HCL in support of healthy blood sugar and triglyceride levels and cardiovascualar health.

 

References:
Berberine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10767672
Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18442638
Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2467395/
Meta-analysis of the effect and safety of berberine in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipemia and hypertension. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25498346
Berberine, a plant alkaloid with lipid- and glucose-lowering properties: From invitro evidence to clinical studies. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26520899