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Berberine: Does it really help with weight loss?
June 23, 2024
Birgitta Dunckel
Many health-promoting properties are attributed to the plant compound berberine. However, one should also be aware of the possible side effects of the barberry alkaloid.
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Berberine is becoming more and more well-known. It is said to lower blood pressure blood pressure and blood lipid levels, have a positive effect on glucose metabolism, protect against cardiovascular diseases, regulate cholesterol levels and help with weight loss, but it also has side effects that must be considered.
Berberine is a natural, alkaline, nitrogen-containing compound that occurs in a variety of plants, for example in goldenseal, barberry, and in the fruit, root, and bark of the barberry (Berberis vulgaris), which is also responsible for the alkaloid's name.
For centuries, berberine has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - and it is also used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments. This is because the alkaloid has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
According to various studies, the alkaloid of barberry seems to have the following potentials:
• Blood sugar control: Studies showed that the active ingredient can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
• Cardiovascular health: It is believed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering cholesterol levels, regulating blood pressure, and supporting heart muscle health.
• Anti-inflammatory effect: It can help alleviate inflammation in the body, which can be particularly beneficial for conditions like arthritis and gout.
• Antimicrobial effect: In TCM, the active ingredient is used for bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
In TCM, the active ingredient is used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, stomach pain, and digestive disorders. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it may help soothe digestion and combat infections in the gastrointestinal tract.
It also influences the gut flora and can promote the growth of certain beneficial bacteria and suppress harmful bacteria.
On social media, it is celebrated as a weight loss miracle. According to a TikTok trend, it is supposed to suppress appetite, inhibit fat storage, and make the pounds fall off. But the studies are thin, lacking scientific, meaningful evidence. Due to the hype, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health has commented.
Although some preliminary research suggested that berberine might play a role in weight loss, there are still too few clinical studies and therefore not enough scientific evidence to determine effectiveness, it concluded.
Since the active ingredient of barberry has been shown to be effective in lowering glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels, it should not be combined with medications that regulate these parameters.
This can lead to unwanted side effects or reduced effectiveness of the medications. Berberine should therefore always be taken in consultation with a doctor. Warning: Berberine is taboo for pregnant and breastfeeding women!
Usually taken as a dietary supplement in capsule or tablet form. However, it can also be purchased as a tea or powder. Be sure to follow the specific dosage!
