Berberine is a bitter-tasting, yellow-colored compound that is found in several plants, including Oregon grape and turmeric. It has been used since ancient times to treat several ailments, such as metabolic conditions and heart disease. Due to its potential benefits for human health, healthy and natural berberine supplements have also been developed for use. However, before having this supplement, it is best to explore its various benefits and consider certain essential factors.
Uses and benefits of berberine supplements
Treats bacterial infections
Berberine has been found to have antibacterial properties. Studies have shown that berberine can fight various bacteria by damaging their protein and DNA. In fact, the natural supplement is highly effective against one particular bacterium – the Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium is a significant reason behind diseases such as meningitis, pneumonia, and various skin ailments. Berberine helps fight against this bacterium by reducing its growth in the body.
Regulates blood sugar
One of the biggest benefits of berberine is that it reduces blood sugar levels and controls type-2 diabetes. The natural supplement achieves this in several ways. These include reducing insulin resistance in the body so the sugar in the blood can be used more for generating energy. The entire process, where all the sugar one consumes gets converted into energy, is called glycolysis. And berberine helps enhance the process, so more blood sugar can get converted into energy. This prevents blood sugar from building up, thereby controlling diabetes. Also, berberine helps slow down the breakdown of carbohydrates. Since all the carbs one consumes get broken down into sugar in the body, their slow breakdown can significantly help lower blood sugar levels.
Lowers bad cholesterol
The human body has two types of cholesterols – good and bad. Good cholesterol is called HDL, and the bad one is called LDL. For healthy living, it is important that one increases the amount of good cholesterol in the body and decreases bad cholesterol. A good berberine supplement can help one in achieving that. Berberine is effective in lowering LDL levels and increasing HDL levels. It also helps prevent several ailments associated with high bad cholesterol. These include heart disease and stroke. Besides bad cholesterol, berberine supplements can also help lower triglycerides, leading to heart diseases if present in high amounts.
Treats high blood pressure
Berberine supplements help in reducing the risk of heart disease in several ways. Besides the ones mentioned above, another way is by helping keep blood pressure in check. Since high blood pressure is also a significant cause of heart disease, it is important to keep it regulated. Studies have found that berberine can help lower high blood pressure.
Helps with PCOS
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a serious hormonal disorder that occurs in females. This disorder is usually linked with some other issues, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Berberine supplements can help with all of these disorders. They are highly effective as a treatment option for PCOS.
Improves gut health
Many studies have also found that berberine supplements have been highly effective in removing bad bacteria from the gut. Not only that, the natural supplement is also found to enhance the growth of good bacteria. By doing so, berberine can help one maintain good gut health. And since it is said that all diseases begin in the gut, it is in everyone’s best interest to keep their gut in good health.
Helps fight cancer
Studies have shown that berberine has the potential to fight several types of cancer. Researchers found that berberine can inhibit the growth of lung cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer, cervical cancer, and colorectal cancer cells. It means that berberine can reduce the growth of these cancer cells and prevent them from spreading. Another study has shown that berberine could even kill certain cancer cells.
Other benefits
Besides these, berberine supplements have several other benefits. These include:
Reduces inflammation – Berberine also has antioxidants, which makes it a great anti-inflammatory supplement.
Improves mental health – As per some studies, berberine can also help in lowering depression, thereby helping mental health.
Reverse fatty liver – Berberine supplements can also help treat fatty liver disease by decreasing fat buildup in the liver.
Factors to consider before using the supplement
While berberine supplements have many benefits, one must consider the following factors before taking them.
Potential side effects
Even the most effective berberine supplements could have potential side effects, such as causing an upset stomach, constipation, or nausea. So, if one notices either of these side effects, one must consult a doctor before continuing to take the supplements.
Taking it with other ongoing treatments
If one is already taking other supplements or undergoing some treatment, they must first consult their doctor to see if it is safe to take berberine supplements. The doctor can provide guidance on the appropriate course of action.
Precautions
It is important to know that berberine supplements are not safe for children. So, it is also not safe for pregnant individuals and breastfeeding individuals to take these supplements.
