Berberine is a powerful supplement that may provide various health benefits. It can aid with weight loss, help regulate blood sugar levels, and boost heart health. But like most remedies, it is not suited for everyone.
This article will review who should not take berberine supplements so you can determine if they are right for you.
People with Diabetes
Berberine has been shown to help support weight loss and weight management, regulate blood sugar levels and blood pressure, lower insulin resistance, reduce sugar production, and boost glycolysis so sugars inside cells break down quickly. It sounds like a diabetic’s dream.
Unfortunately, berberine has not been studied enough to determine how effective it is. Furthermore, it is not FDA-approved for safety, efficacy, and quality control. It may produce dangerous side effects in people with diabetes and other health conditions.
People with diabetes should not take berberine without consulting a healthcare professional. Those who use the supplement should start slowly until they determine how it will affect them.
People Who are Breastfeeding, Pregnant, or May Become Pregnant
Berberine may be unsafe for people who are breastfeeding, pregnant, or may become pregnant. Research has shown its potential to absorb into the placenta and harm the fetus. It may cause a type of brain damage called kernicterus in newborns. The supplement can also be transferred to infants through breast milk.
Newborns and Children
Berberine increases kernicterus risk in newborns. Due to limited research, it is unknown how it will affect older children. It is best to stay on the safe side and keep the supplement away from anyone under 12.
People on Prescription Medication
Berberine can interact with prescription medications. It affects enzymes in the blood and may decrease or increase levels of prescription medications in the body to reduce effects or cause an overdose. It may also increase the risk of bleeding.
People who take diabetes medications should avoid berberine. These medications lower blood sugar. Berberine also lowers blood sugar and can bring it down to dangerous levels. The diabetes drug metformin also causes interactions because it’s metabolized by the liver.
Summing it Up
Berberine has been shown to yield health benefits in certain studies. However, other research reveals that it may not be so effective. Most studies took place in China, so it is unknown how the supplement may affect other populations.
The supplement has also never been tested in large-scale studies, multicenter clinical trials that take place at more than one clinic, or randomized studies where certain groups get placebos and others get the drug. It is also not subject to FDA regulation which oversees a drug’s purity, potency, and efficacy.
In summation, there is not enough research on berberine to prove how safe it is. Avoid taking it if you have any type of medical condition or are in a physical state that makes you vulnerable to certain conditions. Talk to a doctor before using berberine and take it in moderation to start.
Now that you know the facts, will you add berberine to your health routine? Learn more about selecting the best berberine supplement.
