< Back

Berberine

Berberine

Berberine activates AMPK, the body’s “metabolic master switch.” This improves how cells use glucose and fat, lowers liver fat production, and enhances insulin sensitivity. Through these effects, berberine helps balance blood sugar and cholesterol while supporting overall metabolic health.

Does it really work?

Yes — human trials consistently show berberine lowers fasting blood sugar, improves HbA1c, and reduces triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. Its impact on metabolism is strong enough that researchers often compare it to metformin. Beyond these proven results, early studies suggest possible benefits for fatty liver disease and gut health.

Can I get enough in real food?

Not really. Berberine is concentrated in certain medicinal plants like barberry, goldenseal, and Oregon grape, but it isn’t found in everyday foods in meaningful amounts. While these plants can be brewed as teas or tinctures in traditional medicine, supplements are the only practical way to get doses high enough to match what’s been studied for blood sugar and cholesterol support.

Do I need a supplement for everyday health?

If your blood sugar, cholesterol, or metabolic health is already excellent, you probably don’t need berberine. But for people with insulin resistance, high triglycerides, or borderline blood sugar, supplements can provide real, clinically proven support. Berberine is one of the few natural compounds that consistently shows benefits in human studies, though it should be used with care since it can interact with medications in the same way a prescription drug might.