Naturopathic remedies have become a wildly popular means of managing chronic health issues ranging from IBS to weakened immune systems.
In taking a holistic approach to health by prioritising lifestyle changes spanning everything from diet to exercise and more, individuals hoping to improve their wellness have garnered extremely positive results.
Supplements are one of many naturopathic health solutions that have taken the world by storm in recent years, while traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine has used herbs and plant extracts for centuries. Naturopathic remedy professionals, however, suggest that supplementation is secondary to essential life changes if users want to see genuine results.
Berberine is one such natural compound which has become increasingly popular to help manage health issues ranging from high blood pressure and cholesterol to polycystic ovaries and obesity. It’s been dubbed by TikTok enthusiasts as ‘Nature’s Ozempic’, though, obviously, taking advice from purported professionals via social media isn’t something doctors would recommend.
What is berberine and why is it beneficial?
We spoke with Naturopathic Nutritional Therapist Kate Booker from Nutrition Geeks for some further insight into Berberine.
“Berberine is a compound in several plants. Berberine has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine.
- It may help to reduce high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
- It can help to strengthen the immune system.
- Reduces proinflammatory genes (so has an anti-inflammatory effect).
- Improves heart health.
- Some studies show it reduces blood sugar and helps improve type 2 diabetes.”
How does berberine work?
- “It has an anti-inflammatory action which has a positive effect on many of the body's systems.
- It’s considered antimicrobial and may alter bacteria in the gut. It may modulate the microbiome, a likely anti-diabetic mechanism improving insulin response.
- Better blood sugar regulation may explain a more regulated appetite, which could help with weight loss.”
Are there any risks from taking berberine?
“Some report side effects such as upset stomach and nausea.”
Is it safe to take berberine daily?
“It’s best to speak to a health professional before taking berberine. It may not be right for everyone and could interact with other medications. This is why I like to understand what drugs a client is taking before recommending supplements, berberine is a natural remedy that could be as powerful as some prescription drugs.”
Can berberine supplements help to treat PCOS?
“PCOS is linked to some issues that Berberine has been shown to help with, like reducing body weight, diabetes/ high insulin, high cholesterol, and blood pressure. Often metformin is prescribed for PCOS patients (it’s a diabetes drug), some studies show berberine to have a similar effect. As a nutritional therapist with a food-first approach I can’t stress the importance of lifestyle and nutrition changes to improve PCOS symptoms, rather than take X supplement to treat Y pathology, a holistic approach is needed.”
We’ve rounded up a selection of the best berberine supplements to try if you’re considering incorporating the medicine into your routine.
Always discuss with a medical professional before adding supplements such as berberine to your diet.
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Paradise Herbs Berberine Extract, 60 Vegetarian Capsules
These berberine supplements from Paradise Herbs are vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free and prized for premium quality and potency. The supplements are void of any unpleasant aftertaste and contain 500mg of berberine hydrochloride per capsule.
It’s worth noting that berberine and berberine hydrochloride have slightly different biochemical properties. The former is simply extracted from organic materials while the latter is an isoquinoline alkaloid which has been isolated and chemically altered to become an alkaloidal salt.
Some studies suggest that this helps deliver the benefits of berberine throughout the body thanks to higher absorption rates.
Buy now £16.49, iHerb
Mobu Berberine 300mg Capsules
A value-for-money supplement housed in practical and eco-conscious packaging, Mobu’s 300mg berberine capsules are GMP-approved, non-GMO, gluten and dairy-free. According to Mobu, this dosage has been formulated to assist the body in breaking down carbohydrates, aid in nutrient absorption, improve digestion and thereby reduce uncomfortable inflammatory responses such as bloating, gas and indigestion.
Buy now £8.09, Amazon
NaturesPlus Pro Berberine 750mg
Designed to support healthy blood sugar levels, maintain a well-functioning metabolism and support overall health, NautresPlus’ berberine supplements contain an impressive 750mg of berberine hydrochloride for improved absorption. To enjoy the full effects of berberine, NaturesPlus suggests taking two capsules daily alongside a healthy and balanced diet – or as instructed by a healthcare professional.
Buy now £28.76, Healf
Artah G.I Cleanse
If you’re looking for a supplement which incorporates berberine among other metabolism-improving organic compounds to streamline your pill intake, Artah has got you covered with its G.I Cleanse supplements. By harnessing the naturally antimicrobial and antifungal properties of berberine, as well as magnesium, black garlic, pau d’arco, thyme and cloves, these supplements help to address chronic gut issues by inhibiting harmful bacteria and promoting the growth of happy bacteria.
Buy now £33.74, Healf
Natroceutics Berberine Complex
Natroceutics’ berberine complex sets itself apart from the rest in declaring itself to be a potent AMPK activator. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a fuel-sensing enzyme found in all mammalian cells. It plays an important role in cellular energy homeostasis by activating glucose and fatty acid uptake, as well as oxidation when cellular energy is dwindling.
According to Natroceutics, their advanced delivery process helps to mimic the effects of calorie restriction and exercise while improving metabolic health. Inside each capsule is 500mg of berberine hydrochloride, 50mg of liposomal berberine and 25mg of chromium to help with normal insulin production.
Buy now £33.75, Healf
Artah Metabolic Fix
A blend of naturally occurring chemicals like chromium, alpha-lipoic acid, inositol, and TikTok favourite berberine, this supplement promises to support your metabolism, stabilise blood sugar and increase your energy levels.
Buy now £32.00, Artah
Time Health Berberine Phytosome
Berberine phytosome has been formulated to improve absorption rates. According to Time Health, Berbevis berberine (a type of berberine phytosome) has been clinically proven to demonstrate optimal absorption and utilisation within the body. Each capsule contains a whopping 1000mg of Berbevis berberine, and Time Health recommends that adults take two capsules daily.
Buy now £23.99, Time Health
