It seems all health problems are related to gut problems…or at least in part. Berberine is a natural substance found in various plants and has become very popular for lowering blood sugar, lipids, and weight reduction. How in the world does berberine accomplish all these tremendous benefits? The answer lies in the effects on the beneficial effects it has on the gut microbiome.
As I detail in my book The Holistic Guide To Gut Healing, the gut microbiome contains many trillions of microbes, referred to as microbiota. The microbiome is now considered an essential body organ—and the largest organ of the body. It has many functions, including immunity, which provides defense against disease-causing pathogens; production of nutrients, such as short-chain fatty acids and vitamins; energy production; maintaining the intestinal lining; and even influencing your brain function. According to Mayo Clinical Proceedings, “The human microbiome is emerging as a key target of personalized medicine by offering interesting solutions for a variety of environmental and metabolic diseases.”
In an article published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, researchers note that berberine directly improves glucose uptake by the cells and increases the rate of metabolism. However, berberine also improves the balance of bacteria in the gut. Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance of the gut microbiota with reduced beneficial microbes and increased pathogenic microbes. It results from the processed American diet, medications such as antibiotics and acid reflux drugs, and high stress levels. Modern medicine acknowledges dysbiosis but does little to address this significant health problem associated with a leaky gut.
The research also shows that berberine improves the number of butyrate-producing bacteria in the gut microbiome. Butyrate is a by-product of bacteria fermenting fiber (prebiotics) and is formed from postbiotics, which are substances produced by bacteria. Butyrate has anti-inflammatory and other beneficial effects for the gut and body.
In conclusion, berberine has beneficial regulatory effects on the gut microbiome. Most people have dysbiosis, which makes them susceptible to systemic diseases. Berberine is a natural agent that can balance the gut flora. As a result, there can be a reduction of inflammatory signals, which benefits those with prediabetes, Type 2 diabetes, overweight, liver disease, hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, and digestive disease.
Stengler, Mark. The Holistic Guide To Gut Health. Hay House, 2024.
Zhang, L., Wu, X., Yang, R., Chen, F., Liao, Y., Zhu, Z., Wu, Z., Sun, X., & Wang, L. (2021). Effects of berberine on the gastrointestinal microbiota. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2020.588517
