Polycystic Ovary Syndrome & Berberine Supplementation
What is Berberine?
Berberine is a supplement that is found in plants. It is most commonly used for diabetes, high levels of cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Why is Berberine beneficial for women with PCOS?
Ovarian dysfunction causes metabolic disorders and many unwanted symptoms. Interventions such as Berberine supplementation may be beneficial in relieving symptoms and reducing occurrence of metabolic disorders (e.g. cardiovascular diseases & type 2 diabetes) that are common with PCOS.
The Benefits of Berberine:
Reduces Insulin
Women with PCOS often have difficulties managing the insulin hormone, resulting in too much insulin being secreted. Berberine helps to improve insulin signalling by stimulating glucose intake.
Improves Gut Health
Berberine can provide gut barrier protection by increasing the production of short chain fatty acids (increasing good bacteria in the gut), raising these fatty acids contributes to lowering the incidence of metabolic disorders.
Improves Fatty Liver Disease
Berberine has been proven to lower triglycerides and liver function enzymes, overall improving the condition of the liver.
Fights Cancer
Berberine is showing promising outcomes in preventing cancer cells from replicating and invading other cells. It has also been regarded as a potential agent from decreasing breast cancer risk.
Lowers Cholesterol
Berberine slows the release of free fatty acids whilst also boosting fat burning in the mitochondria to lower cholesterol levels. Therefore aiding in preventing cardiovascular disease.
Fights Inflammation
Berberine has anti-inflammatory properties that have shown to be beneficial in the treatment of irritable bowel disease.
Boost Fertility and Pregnancy
Berberine has been linked to improving ovulation in women with PCOS, as well as pregnancy.
Reduces Testosterone
Berberine has been shown to reduce levels of androgens in women with PCOS.
Lowers Blood Pressure
When combined with blood pressure lowering medications, berberine showed results that were better than using blood medications alone.
Aids in Weight Loss and Body Fat Loss
One of berbeines major benefits is that it targets fat cells to reverse fat storage. Berbeine has also been shown to reduce secretion of the appetite hormone (leptin) which stimulates appetite. Levels of these appetite hormones have been shown to be impaired in women with PCOS.