Berberine is a potent alkaloid extract, derived from a type of shrubs named berberis, which can significantly glucose levels in blood.
The herb has its roots in China, and for ages it has been used as a traditional medicine to reduce blood sugar and control weight.
It’s used primarily to reduce insulin resistance. People with type II diabetes have reported satisfactory results when they are on this supplement.
Berberine activates the enzyme known as Adenosine Monophosphate Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK).
At the same time, it inhibits Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B). The whole process increases insulin sensitivity.
This active compound also reduces inflammatory cytokine storms, which helps build a robust immune system.
Since it is not widely available it is advised that you must use a premium Berberine supplement, to gain the best results.
Dosages and Benefits for Type II Diabetes
Berberine is a natural compound, and unlike any medicines, it’s required in higher dosages.
It needs about 1500 mg to be taken throughout the day to start with. To yield the best results, you must take about 500 mg everyday after each meal, three times a day.
The effectiveness can be measured after one month of usage.
You should do glucose, both fasting and PP. Though it has shown promising results in reducing diabetes, there are not enough clinical trials to establish it as a proven medicine.
Additionally, the working mechanism of berberine is unclear, and there are hardly enough studies surrounding it.
It is an upcoming new age drug, which can take the market by storm, once medically established.
How Berberine Can Help in Weight Loss
Berberine acts like a catalyst that reduces LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, in both diabetes and cardiac patients.
It also partially increases HDL cholesterol. For best results for cholesterol regulation, you can take this with omega 3 supplements.
Diets to Follow
Always remember that supplements are not wonder drugs and it will only assist you in gaining desired results.
You can never ignore the power of a good diet. Ideally, you should go on a keto diet if you are taking this medicine.
You can also go for a low carb or calorie deficit diet. It is advised that you must consult with a medical professional before taking this potent herbal medicine.
How to Buy Berberine
Since Berberine is a new age drug, companies are rushing to grasp it in the market..
The chemical compound of this medicine is not very cheap and the shrub is not easily available.
Extraction involves a rigorous process. Hence, you must avoid buying this supplement from companies who are offering huge discounts on it.
Instead, you can buy in bulk for two to three months to have a price advantage.
Drug Interactions and Side Effects
Berberine has strong drug interactions with any type of gastrointestinal and probiotic drugs. If you are taking any vitamin and other nutraceutical supplements, it is advised that you must take them within two hours.
No severe side effects have been reported on human trial. Overdosing may cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.