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Blood-Sugar-Busting Berberine: a Diabetes Solution

 

Insulin resistance, the common root cause of Type 2 Diabetes, is truly epidemic in our society. Whether we realize it yet or not, I believe every one of us has a practice loaded with patients or clients with suboptimal blood sugar control and related metabolic issues. The good news is that Type 2 diabetes is absolutely reversible! Long-term healing requires a client to change their diet and lifestyle – usually substantially. And, as you know, some of them just aren’t ready emotionally for that change. It takes time. But in the interim, these clients absolutely need help alleviating the toxic oxidative effects of  elevated sugar on their organs, glands, and other tissues. (We’re featuring this popular post again because it’s about a particularly powerful tool.)

As a scientist at heart, I am inherently skeptical of claims of seemingly “magical” effects of herbal remedies.  Some are absolutely true, but many are overblown (just as we see with pharmaceutical remedies, marketing claims can be predatory and irresponsible). I want to introduce you, however, to an herbal solution that holds up quite well to scrutiny: berberine. Like another herbal powerhouse curcumin, berberine is a plant phytonutrient, specifically an alkaloid.  It’s been used for eons as a natural antibiotic. I’ve used it successfully in my practice to help people who choose natural treatment (as opposed to prescription antibiotics) for all sorts of unwelcome microbial infections…bacteria,  yeast, parasites. Berberine is extracted from a number of medicinal herbs, most commonly Oregon grape root, barberry, and goldenseal (what you see in the picture).

But that’s only the beginning of berberine’s power, and this is not “news”. A couple of ground-breaking clinical studies way back in 2008 found that berberine regulates blood sugar in Type 2 diabetes just as well as the blockbuster drug metformin (and even better than the drug, with no notable side effects). No, I am not exaggerating. In peer-reviewed studies in the medical journals Metabolism and the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology, berberine was found to lower both fasting and post-prandial (after a meal) blood sugar and insulin equally as well as metformin. And beyond blood sugar, berberine also reduced those participants’ triglycerides by an average 35% and their LDL cholesterol by an average 21% and their blood pressure by 7/5 mm Hg (three things metformin doesn’t and doesn’t claim to do). These further effects are critical benefits for our patients and clients with not just advanced insulin resistance but full-blown metabolic syndrome. (There were some concerns expressed about the experimental methodology in some earlier berberine studies, but there is a clear pattern of superiority in these follow-on studies, including the gold standard experimental design in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology feature.)

Berberine works in this disease process for a variety of reasons. It activates a primal metabolism-regulating enzyme in the body called AMPK. When we are producing less ATP (energy) in our cells, the body secretes AMPK to ensure our survival in times of crisis. This is the same enzyme that gets triggered with severe calorie restriction (which has been shown to prolong life in animals, but is practically sustainable by very few). AMPK stimulates our cells to take in more blood sugar, thus improving insulin sensitivity. But it also slows our liver’s own production of extra blood sugar (a key issue for most Type 2 diabetics). By supporting our liver, berberine also slows the release of free fatty acids into the blood (which is what creates triglycerides) and boosts natural fat-burning in the mitochondria (the little energy factories in all our cells that turn fuel into energy). Its mode of action is also via modulating the microbiome (and thus its downstream effect on short chain fatty acid production and bile acid metabolism), all of which we know have an impact on insulin regulation and signaling (yet another excellent example of how disease begins in the gut). You may learn more about berberine’s mechanisms of action here. And more about the comparative features, risks, and benefits of metformin vs. berberine here.

For the typical adult, berberine is effective for blood-sugar management taken 400-500mg at once, twice or thrice a day, ideally about 30 minutes prior to each meal. To ensure your client gets an effective dose each time, I suggest choosing a product with a standardized berberine extract (as opposed to a whole-herb product like goldenseal). I recommend Thorne’s Berberine-500 or (if your client is struggling with GI issues as well, like gas and bloating)  try the multi-herbal formula Metagenics CandiBactin-BR.
(On a side note, if your client is indeed taking metformin, make sure they take a daily Vitamin B12 supplement with a meal (e.g. 1000mcg methylcobalamin for most, to ensure cellular absorption). A significant, documented side effect of metformin is Vitamin B12 depletion, making neuropathy an even larger risk than it already is for diabetics. I have seen this in several clients.)

Don’t forget, however, that berberine is a Potent antimicrobial herb. Ongoing use can dramatically shift microbial balance in the gut. For this reason, I do not, recommend berberine for ongoing “management” of elevated blood sugar but rather as a supportive remedy while you are working with them to reverse the root causes, typically for 2-3 months.  It may be best tolerated if taken in cycles of ~3 weeks with a couple of weeks off in between to allow the microbiome to recover. While short-term modulation of microbiome diversity may help improve insulin signaling, ongoing suppression may promote other GI or immune system imbalance.

If your client is an insulin-dependent diabetic (i.e. taking insulin shots), be sure to encourage them to monitor their blood sugar regularly as they start to use berberine or any new therapy (and do so in consult with the original prescribing practitioner – if that’s not you). Encourage them to start with just one dose/day and increase slowly to ensure they can stay in control.  You may be surprised at just how quickly insulin sensitivity improves! They often need to cut back on their insulin dramatically to avoid dangerous blood sugar troughs. Almost all of my clients eventually end up able to stop both supplemental insulin – and eventually metformin too. While life-saving as a short-term, triage therapy, long-term insulin use makes Type 2 diabetics even less healthy. Surplus insulin promotes more inflammation in the body, imbalances hormones, and increases body fat storage, especially in the abdominal area (again, a source of inflammation and estrogen).

Perhaps like you, I still find it amazing that this type of solution (and its clinical study results) doesn’t typically make media headlines. Of course, I understand you cannot patent an herb.  And so no single corporation stands to corner the market on berberine. But this is (still!) BIG news for the millions of people struggling with diabetes. Actually, it’s not the only natural remedy I’ve seen successfully stabilize and then help to reverse Type 2 diabetes, but it is definitely the most potent one.

Educate and inspire your clients and patients to believe that they are neither doomed or destined to live their entire lives with Type 2 diabetes if they are willing to change their lives. With your help and their commitment to change, they can find true healing. Type 2 Diabetes is absolutely reversible!

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Manny Kandola
Manny Kandola

Also you mentioned in your previous comments to cut down grains and carbs. Then what should we eat. Any recommendations will be helpful. Thanks

Manny Kandola
Manny Kandola

Hello
I was diagnosed for higher sugar in 2014. I am 38 years old. I was prescribed metformin 1000 mg 2 times a day. I took it for 3 months and then quit. I started taking homeopathic medicine but my sugar level are still up. I check my in the morning and it was 248. I am thinking about taking berberine. Do you think will it help. Thanks

Kat
Kat

I have been taking Berberine for almost 2 1/2 months (3x400mg daily), my carbs are primarily from fruits and vegetables, with a very limited amount of rice or quinoa. I average about no more than 100g carb daily. However, I still am hovering in the 110-112 fast blood glucose in the morning. The lowest I dropped was 90. I was expecting to see lower numbers after a few months taking Berberine. From a non medical opinion, more from a nutritional or experience, what may be keeping my fasting number still high. It is registering the same with or without the Berberine. Does it take this long to show signs of working?
At this point I don’t know the questions I need to ask since this is rather new and alarming me not to see any changes. The frustrating part is that when I made an appointment with all the local Endos, they have a 6-8 month waiting list. And the local functionalist has even longer. That almost 1/2 year that my body goes untreated or given a plan for healing.

Addie Esc
Addie Esc

I just discovered your website and also just discovered Berberine and am quite excited about both. I am on Metformin 1000 twice a day and my A1C number is 8.2. I have just started on Trulicity just this last Friday but I have had a strong reaction to it. Nausea. I am sure that i will probably not be able to continue using it but i am so determined to get my numbers down. I think that I would put up with nausea for a little while if it would help me meet my goals of BG and A1C at healthy levels.
My fasting numbers have been for the most part in 140-160 range. But after reading about Berberine I have decided to start this supplement as soon as I order and receive it. Can I take the Berberine while i am doing the Trulicity? I am discussing this find with my health provider so that she will know what I am doing.
Thank you so much for your website and all the information you provide.
Addie

cece
cece

I’ve had diabetes since 2007 I’m taking metformin 2 in am & 2 in pm also taking 90 insulin in am & 70 insulin in pm I’ve purchased pure Berberine should I take 1gram in am &1gram in pm before meals also continue my regular meds please help I want to stop using Metforman & Insulin?

Ambercita
Ambercita

I have pcos and my endo said that I have a slight level of insulin resistance. It was still in the normal ramge but on the higher side. She mentioned taking metformin for preventative reasons. I tried it out for 3 months but felt horrible on it. I eat low glycemic and low carb and exercise 6 days a week for about an hour each (insanity program) and I have been able to lose weight. Is it dangerous for me to try berberine if my insulin resistance is slight and I do not have to monitor my blood sugar or anything like that? The fact that it helps with gut bacteria and things like that sounds appealing! I just dont know if it will lower my blood sugar too low or have any dangerous effect.

Ambercita
Ambercita
Reply to  SAFM Team

I do take inositol in the morning and at night to help with my insulin resistance and I feel that it is working. I also take NAC, b complex and other “normal” vitamins such as a multi, d3, and fish oil. Can I take berberine while taking these? And if it doesn’t have a negative reaction to these when should I take the berberine, inositol and vitamins? Berberine 30 min before breakfast and inositol and vitamins with meal? Also, how will I know when I am no longer insulin resistant is the labs can look normal even with insulin resistance? Should I stay on berberine even after the insulin is fixed for preventative/ gut reasons? I know you can’t offer specific medical advice. I would just like your opinion. I am currently looking for a natural doctor in my area and I would like to present your opinion during my appointment. Thanks!

Kat
Kat

Interesting article. What has been your experience with a Berberine supplement that also includes Alpha Lipoic Acid – supporting liver health, cardiovascular health, and optimal insulin and blood sugar levels. The capsule has 400 mg Berberine, 100 mg ALA.
I live in the Charleston SC area, do you have any recs on a functional medicine Dr, I have been fighting with many doctors on my treatment, many not willing to lookout side textbook TSH levels and diagnose and treat by symptoms. Another abnormality that I have found in looking back on my blood work since 2009, is an Elevated Glucose Serum. In 2009 it was 110 (65-99), 2011 it was 110, 2014 it was 117, in March 2015 it went to 122, in Dec 2015 it dropped to 115 but still high. In April 2016 my A1c was at 6.2 (4.8-5.6). My fasting level is holding at 112, no budge. I carry weight in my middle, I have Hashimoto and struggle to move the scale. I eat Low carbs(110-120g) , concentrating on lean protein- good fat. I haven’t been diagnosed but I think I have insulin resistance or metabolic resistance, but it not being treated. Any other supplement suggestions?

Penny
Penny

Is it okay to open a berberine capsule and mix with water or applesauce? I have a hard time swallowing capsules.

Penny
Penny
Reply to  SAFM Team

Thanks! That worked very well.. I’m hoping that the berberine will help with my PCOS. I have had a horrible time staying on the metformin (GI issues) and so far after a couple of doses of the berberine, I’ve had no stomach issues.. I’m very hopeful.

Michelle
Michelle

Hi, I have PCOS with insulin resistance, Metabolic syndrome. Have had it since puberty. I’m 42 now. Trying to get pregnant in my 20’s I was successful with the protein modified fast. Lost 50lbs and got pregnant without infertility doc. After having my daughter I was back up to 200lbs and the diet didn’t work. Got in with my endocrinologist and my fasting insulin was abnormally high. He started me on Januvia and I was already on metformin. Been on both ever since, plus zocor for cholesterol and blood pressure medicine. The weight came off with just diet and exercise. I then had another child 3 yrs ago and gained all the weight back. Went back on my meds after delivery and no weight loss. Joined a boxing club and the intense workout got me back down but still not at a good BMI. I have been reading about berberine and wondering if it would finally help me lose weight by correcting what my insulin resistance is doing to my body, storing more fat than normal. But do I continue both januvia and metformin. I have never needed to check my blood glucose because my hgba1c has always been normal… Read more »

Anna
Anna

I’ve been using for a week now. What i can tell is that it is best to take AFTER a meal. I had a week of diarrhea by taking it before. When I take it AFTER it works wonderfully for me. I actually feel in better mood too. Lot more pep to my step. I’m taking it with my Metformin but hope to wean off it. It has dropped my sugar by 25pts immediately.

martha
martha

Hello,
Is it ok to take a berberine 500 while I’m in insulin 40 u” /night

Hollie
Hollie

Is this recommended and safe for teenagers? My 14y/o daughter is not yet diabetic but has severe insulin resistance (1st & 2nd hour of insulin test were 300+…should have been under 25) and hyperinsulinemia. She struggles with her weight. Endo wanted to put her on Metformin, but we are not comfortable starting that and are looking for natural alternatives. Would love your opinion on this! Thank you.

Hollie
Hollie
Reply to  SAFM Team

Thank you for the info. She has always been active and great at making healthy food choices, nothing to drink but water, very rare pre-packaged foods. We felt like we were doing everything right… which is partly why this has been such a frustrating journey. We have been eating Paleo for several years without much success though (just realized though that some of the “paleo-approved” foods are way higher in carbs than she should be eating. Even just by adding small amounts of honey or maple syrup, and using tapioca starch to our baked goods apparently was a huge no-no for her. After much research on how insulin works in our bodies, we recently switched to eating a Ketogenic diet for the past 2 months. I’m sure it is helping to lower her insulin set-point, but still have not seen much for weight loss, which is why I was curious about Berberine…I feel like she is on a really good path now, but that her body needs a little boost of help from some sort of a supplement. I appreciate your response and suggestions. I will be ordering Berberine and will also check into the Designs for Health “Metabolic Synergy”… Read more »

Hollie
Hollie
Reply to  SAFM Team

Excellent info. We have worked with a functional medicine doctor in the past…years ago…it sounds like it’s time to go back and see him again now that she’s older and all the crazy hormones have come into play. Thank you.

Kendra
Kendra

Hi!

Thank you for this wonderful article. I have recently been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and metabolic syndrome, along with MTHFR gene. I have been taking metformin and synthroid for a few months. I’m not loving the side effects of the met. It would be wonderful to move towards a more natural routine, but I’m not sure where to begin or how to wean off of my current meds. I also take an active b vitamin. Do you have any suggestions on how to move forawrd? Thank you so much for your time!

Lauren
Lauren

Please help. My blood sugar is around 69-81 regularly. However, I have PCOS and am insulin resistant. I have hit a weightloss plateau and have been stuck fo like 5 months. I’ve lowered my calories, upped my exercise, changed my macros and eat more protein. I’m still stuck at 260 and when I get slightly below 260 it bounces back the next day. I’m so frustrated and want to try berberine but don’t know if it is right for me? Please help!

CJ
CJ

I tried taking Dr. Whitaker’s Berberine several years ago but saw no difference in my BSL’s. Today I am on a ketogenic diet and would like to get off metformin (1000mg x 2day). Do you think it’s worth a try again? My doctor is testing me for LADA. Is Thorne your first choice of brand?

Thank you for your time.

CJ

Dominik Stankiewicz

I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in June 2015. After a short trial with Metformin (I have one kidney and it was not enough to filter the additional lactic acid in my body — thus, I developed lactic acidosis and spent a few days in the hospital).

I came across Berberine after researching Chinese Medicine and Diabetes. After reading Clinical Trials (the same ones mentioned in this article), I decided to give it a try with my doctor’s permission.

With diet change and Berberine, my a1c adventure:

June 2015: 8.1%
September 2015: 6.3%
December 2015: 5.6%

I am very happy with Berberine, it works extremely well without any horrible side effects. Please be careful with lows though, as I experience them more often than highs. However, I’m new to all this.

Charissa
Charissa

Great article! I have a client who is underweight and hypoglycemic. Would you use the same approach described above?

Nazneen
Nazneen

Hi, can berberine (500 mg x 3x/day) be taken along with metformin?
Currently on a dose of 1000 mg 2x/day (breakfast and lunch) for PCOS and insulin resistance.
And the dosage of the berberine?
thanks 🙂

Felicia. A
Felicia. A

My mom bought me berberine for my diabetes
but it says to take 3 a day before
each meal. The capsules are 1000mg each so
so i am afraid the dose is too high. Every dr.
I researched on the internet says to take 3
500mg a day. Should i take such a high
dosage?

Debby
Debby

My husband (64) is on Metformin (500mg 2x a day) and would really like to get off of it and try something natural. We do take a lot of other vitamins and supplements. I’m kind of a nut about that…He is slim and runs and lifts weights, so his weight is not the issue. He also takes Lipator. I have been seeing and searching out articles on berberine. I have on order Berberine from my favorite vit./supplement co. Swanson Vitamins. My question to you is, can he stop the Metformin and start taking the Berberine? Or should he take it with the Metformin and wean off the Metformin after a few days? I don’t know what other information you might need to answer this, or what other advise you can add…anything would be appreciated.
Debby

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