Berberine: how does it fit into functional medicine and holistic healthcare?
In the world of holistic medicine, one has been taking the internet by storm: berberine. With practitioners in Meridian and Boise, Idaho, talking about it, let’s explore what research has to say about this compound’s potential benefits for metabolic health. At Virasoap Natural Medicine of Idaho, we are keen to employ functional health options at our clinic that can address the root cause of illness.
Berberine might be making headlines as a weight loss wonder, but its true power lies in its support for vital body functions. It doesn’t just melt away fat or curb your hunger pangs; instead, it works to get to the root cause, helping regulate blood sugar levels, manage fats in the bloodstream, and balance hormones — all key players in overall metabolic health.
But first, what is berberine? It’s a natural compound that can help to optimize wellness and is found in several plants like goldenseal and barberry. Today, we’re discovering that berberine could be a powerful ally against some common health issues, including high blood sugar, diabetes, high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now also referred to as pure metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic and alcohol related/associated liver disease (MetALD).
The research findings for berberine’s impact on these various health concerns are strongly positive. We are here to give you the lowdown on how berberine could offer holistic benefits and treat the root cause of various ailments.
A holistic approach to high blood sugar and diabetes
One of the most impressive benefits of berberine is its ability to help manage high blood sugar levels. For those with diabetes, this is crucial. Berberine works in a way similar to some diabetes medications by improving insulin sensitivity and helping the body break down sugars inside cells.
Studies have shown that taking berberine can lead to a significant reduction in blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In a 2008 clinical study, subjects with type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia received either 1 g berberine daily or placebo. Statistically significant decreases were seen in the important metabolic labs of the berberine group including glucose levels, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), triglycerides, and total- and LDL-cholesterol levels.
A supplement to fight high cholesterol
High cholesterol is a problem for many, but berberine might help here too. It has been found to reduce bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Plus, it can increase good HDL cholesterol. This happens because berberine can help regulate how the body handles fats and sugars, which is great news for your heart health. One 2013 study found low risk cardiovascular disease patients who took berberine for 3 month periods were able to significantly lower total- and LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing the good HDL levels. This ability to fight the underlying causes of disease makes berberine truly remarkable.
PCOS and berberine: natural hormone help
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, affects many women and can lead to issues like irregular periods and infertility. Berberine can be beneficial for those with PCOS in many stages of life by helping to lower insulin resistance, which is often a main concern with this condition. It also helps in weight management and can improve other PCOS symptoms such as annoying hormonal acne, making it a promising natural treatment option.
In a small integrative medicine study, women diagnosed with PCOS were given twice daily berberine for 2 months and found a statistically significant decreases in multiple dangerous lab markers including insulin resistance, fasting blood sugar, inflammation, triglycerides, testosterone, BMI, visceral adipose tissue, fat mass, and acne.
In another randomized trial, it was found that in women in PCOS given a few treatment options, the berberine group had most significant decreases in total- and LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides and increased HDL levels. This group additionally had the most decreased total testosterone and increased SHBG. This study did highlight major benefit from the group taking myo-inositol for improving insulin sensitivity, demonstrating benefit from a multifactorial approach.
Addressing liver health, NAFLD and MASLD
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is becoming more common and can lead to serious liver damage. Berberine may protect the liver by improving fat metabolism and reducing liver inflammation. This means it could be a helpful tool for those looking to support their liver health, especially if they are dealing with NAFLD or MASLD.
In a randomized trial, patients given berberine saw significant decreases in liver fat, insulin resistance, body weight, and lipid profiles. This trial also showed that natural berberine beat the medication pioglitazone for reducing body weight and improving lipids!
How to use berberine for optimal health
If you’re considering adding berberine to your health routine, it’s usually taken as an oral supplement. The typical dosage is around 500 mg taken two to three times daily, but it’s important to talk to your licensed functional medicine practitioner before starting any new protocol, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Remember, while berberine shows a lot of promise, it’s not a cure-all. It should be part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. With your doctor’s guidance, berberine could be a valuable addition to address the underlying causes of certain health conditions. It’s also important to talk to a licensed functional medicine doctor who knows the different supplement company’s formulations to make sure you are taking the correct option for your overall health.
In conclusion, berberine is a versatile option that could offer support for various health concerns. Its potential to assist with blood sugar levels, cholesterol, PCOS, NAFLD and MASLD makes it worth considering for those seeking natural ways to boost their health. When searching for Meridian functional medicine, always consult with a licensed healthcare provider to ensure it’s right for you and to determine the proper dosage.
Our licensed naturopathic doctor and experienced functional medicine practitioner offers comprehensive functional medicine consultations in Meridian / Boise, Idaho. Free discovery calls are available!
