Spotlight on Berberine
What is Berberine? Why is berberine having a moment in pop culture now? In functional medicine and naturopathic medicine, berberine has been used for many years to modulate the gut microbiome and treat gastrointestinal disorders. Data, mostly derived from preclinical studies, suggest that gut microbiota play an important role in conditions such as obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Gut bacteria seem to contribute to differences in body weight, fat distribution, insulin sensitivity and glucose-and lipid-metabolism. With the rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy, many people are looking for alternatives. Berberine, an isoquinoloine alkaloid that has been associated with anti-inflammatory and weight-loss effects, also happens to increase GLP-1. A holistic or functional medicine approach that mimics the effects of these medications are a nice alternative to being on a long-term medication. Berberine may also be utilized by those who are looking to transition off of GLP-1 receptor agonists (Ozempic, Wegovy) after reaching their personal goal weight. Whatever the reason, I’d love to tell you a bit more about this amazing compound.
Berberine is a bioactive compound found in several plants, including the roots, rhizomes, and bark of various herbs from the Berberis genus, such as Berberis vulgaris (barberry), Berberis aristata (tree turmeric), and Coptis chinensis (Chinese goldthread). It has been used in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, for centuries due to its health benefits. Here are some of the benefits and a brief history of berberine's use in medicine:
Benefits of Berberine:
1. Blood Sugar Regulation: Berberine has been studied for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. It can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce insulin resistance, and enhance glucose metabolism, making it potentially beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
2. Heart Health: Berberine may support cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing triglycerides. It can also help lower blood pressure, which can contribute to better heart function.
3. Weight Management: Some research suggests that berberine can help with weight loss by affecting metabolism and fat storage. It may also help reduce appetite and improve feelings of fullness.
4. Anti-Inflammatory: Berberine has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce chronic inflammation, which is associated with various chronic diseases.
5. Antimicrobial: Berberine exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and has been used to treat various infections, including bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections.
6. Gut Health: It may support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
7. Liver Health: Berberine may have protective effects on the liver and can be beneficial in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Berberine has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems. In Trraditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Berberine-containing herbs like Coptis chinensis have been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments, including gastrointestinal issues, diarrhea, and infections. In Ayurvedic medicine, berberine-rich plants like Berberis aristata have been used to treat digestive disorders and skin conditions. Indigenous peoples in North America used berberine-containing plants like Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) for medicinal purposes, including treating infections and digestive problems. Do you see a theme here?
In modern times, scientific research has provided evidence supporting many of these traditional uses. Berberine supplements are now widely available and studied for their potential health benefits, particularly in the context of metabolic and cardiovascular health. If you are interested in finding out more about berberine and if it may be right for you, please don’t hesitate to book a free consultation with the functional medicine providers at Tendwell. We can guide you to a regimen that is supportive and safe.
References:
Andreasen, A. S., Larsen, N., Pedersen-Skovsgaard, T., Berg, R. M., Møller, K., Svendsen, K. D., ... & Pedersen, B. K. (2010). Effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM on insulin sensitivity and the systemic inflammatory response in human subjects. British Journal of Nutrition, 104(12), 1831-1838.
Diamant, M., Blaak, E. E., & De Vos, W. M. (2011). Do nutrient–gut–microbiota interactions play a role in human obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes?. Obesity reviews, 12(4), 272-281.
