What is Berberine?

A natural isoquinoline derivative alkaloid isolated from Rhizoma coptidis, commonly used to treat inflammation, diabetes, hyperlipidemia and infertility. Berberine has been shown to have similar effects as metformin on improving metabolic index, insulin levels and hyperandrogenemia. It has also been associated with improved body composition and fertility in women with PCOS. 



Glucose Metabolism/Profile

  • Improves insulin sensitivity and stimulates glucose uptake

  • Promotion of glucose transport and enhanced glucose metabolism

  • Associated with decreased fasting plasma glucose levels

  • No difference between the effects of Berberine and Metformin in terms of decreasing 2-hour glucose levels

*3 randomised control studies, 196 participants (Xie et al., 2019)


Lipid Metabolism

  • Reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-C

—> Berberine can increase the oxidation of free fatty acids in the blood (particularly LDL-C)

—> Improved insulin resistance and lipid metabolism

  • Increases HDL-C levels

*6 randomised control studies, 457 participants (Xie et al., 2019)


Weight Control and Obesity

  • Improved waist circumference measurements

—> Adipose tissue redistribution (particularly around the mid area) which was also associated with improved insulin sensitivity 

*5 randomised control studies, 402 participants (Xie et al., 2019)


Hormone Profile, PCOS and Fertility 

  • Reduces total testosterone and FAI *8 randomised control studies, 577 participants (Xie et al., 2019)

  • Increase in SHBG levels

  • May be helpful in restoring endocrine function, improving ovulation and fertility

* 2 randomised control studies, 146 participants (Xie et al., 2019)


Berberine Vs Metformin

Previous scientific studies have reported live birth rates slightly higher in women with PCOS treated with Berberine as opposed to metformin (Xie et al., 2019).


References


Xie, L., Zhang, D., Ma, H., He, H., Xia, Q., Shen, W., Chang, H., Deng, Y., Wu, Q., Cong, J., Wang, C. and Wu, X., 2019. The Effect of Berberine on Reproduction and Metabolism in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019, pp.1-14.

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