Evidence suggests that natural supplements like berberine could offer significant benefits for boosting type 2 diabetes and prediabetes health.
Berberine, a compound extracted from several plants, including Berberis aristata and Rhizoma Coptidis, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Its potential to control blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and even aid in weight loss, make it a compelling option for managing your condition naturally.
Let’s look at the benefits, according to research studies:
Better Blood Sugar Control
One of the most impressive aspects of berberine is its ability to control blood sugar levels effectively.
Research has shown that berberine can lower blood sugar levels as effectively as metformin, the most widely prescribed diabetes medication.
In a notable study, participants with type 2 diabetes were given either 500 mg of berberine three times a day or 500 mg of metformin three times a day.
After 13 weeks, the berberine group experienced a greater reduction in their HbA1c levels—a key marker of long-term blood glucose control—than the metformin group.
In fact, berberine can lower A1c by as much as 2%!
And it has an impact on both fasting and postprandial levels.
Improving Insulin Sensitivity
Insulin resistance is a common issue in both prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Berberine enhances insulin sensitivity by increasing the expression and function of insulin receptors. This helps cells respond more effectively to insulin, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.
Additionally, berberine stimulates glycolysis (the breakdown of glucose for energy) and suppresses gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose in the liver), further aiding in glucose metabolism.
Potent Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation plays a significant role in the development and progression of diabetes. Berberine has been shown to reduce key inflammatory markers, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, which are often elevated in people with diabetes.
By lowering these markers, berberine helps improve overall metabolic function and enhances the effectiveness of other diabetes treatments.
This anti-inflammatory effect also reduces the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes.
Supporting Weight Management
Berberine can aid in weight loss by influencing cellular regulators of fat accumulation and reducing inflammation.
Studies have shown that berberine can prevent fat deposits and promote a healthier metabolism, making it easier to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Boost Heart Health
People with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes often struggle with high cholesterol levels, increasing their risk of heart disease.
Berberine has been shown to lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol. In some studies, its effects on cholesterol levels were even more impressive than those of statin drugs.
Additionally, berberine improves endothelial function, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood vessels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Recommended Supplements & Dosage
Toniiq Berberine is a highly purified super concentrated extract, making it one of the most highly concentrated bioavailable berberine products on the market.
The typical dosage used in studies is 500 mg three times a day. However, starting with a lower dose of 300 mg three times a day can help minimise potential gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation, stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhoea.
It’s always best to take berberine with meals to reduce the likelihood of these side effects. If you experience any adverse effects, reducing the dosage or spreading it throughout the day might help.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your situation.
Safety and Precautions
While berberine is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics and blood thinners.
Additionally, because berberine can lower blood sugar levels, there’s a risk of hypoglycaemia, especially when taken with other diabetes medications, especially insulin or sulfonylureas.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid berberine due to a lack of sufficient safety data. As always, consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
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