Every once in a while there is a product that seems to suddenly rise in popularity and takes us by surprise. Berberine is one of those products. We even have a hard time finding stock on occasion because it’s become so popular! Not to worry, though, we have plenty in stock if you think it’s something you want to add to your regimen… and we think you just might! It’s that good!

What is Berberine?
Berberine is a compound that can be extracted from several different plants. It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for a number of common ailments. Over time, science has backed up what common wisdom has long told, especially with its power to boost blood sugar metabolism and promote weight loss. One of the main actions of berberine is to activate an enzyme inside cells called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). This enzyme is sometimes referred to as a “metabolic master switch.” It is found in the cells of various organs, including the brain, muscle, kidney, heart and liver. This enzyme plays a major role in regulating metabolism. Berberine also affects various other molecules inside cells, and may even affect which genes are turned on or off.

It Causes a Major Reduction in Blood Sugar Levels
Type 2 diabetes is a serious disease that has become incredibly common in recent decades, causing millions of deaths every year. It is characterized by elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels, either caused by insulin resistance or lack of insulin. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the body’s tissues and organs, leading to various health problems and a shortened lifespan. Many studies show that berberine can significantly reduce blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. In fact, its effectiveness is comparable to the popular diabetes drug metformin (Glucophage)

It Seems to Work Via Multiple Different Mechanisms
• Decreases insulin resistance, making insulin more effective.
• Increases the break down of sugars inside cells.
• Decreases sugar production in the liver.
• Slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the gut.
• Increases the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

In one study of 116 diabetic patients, 1 gram (1,000mg) of berberine per day lowered fasting blood sugar by 20%. It also lowered hemoglobin A1c by 12% (a marker for long-term blood sugar levels), and also improved blood lipids like cholesterol and triglycerides.

Berberine May Help You Lose Weight
Researchers believe that the weight loss is caused by improved function of fat-regulating hormones, such as insulin, adiponectin and leptin. Berberine also appears to inhibit the growth of fat cells at the molecular level.

It Lowers Cholesterol and May Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease
According to a review of 11 studies, it can:
• Lower total cholesterol
• Lower LDL cholesterol
• Lower blood triglycerides
• Raise HDL cholesterol

Keep in mind that diabetes, high blood sugar levels and obesity are also major risk factors for heart disease, all of which seem to be improved with this supplement.

Other Health Benefits
Preliminary studies show that berberine may have benefits against depression, cancer, infections, fatty liver and heart failure. It also has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Many of these benefits need more research before firm recommendations can be made, but the current evidence is very promising. Recommended dosage is 500 mg. 3x daily between meals for best results.