Best berberine supplements available in the UK
06/10/2024 - By Rhysa Phommachanh (BA) hons Specialist Hair and Media Make-up, Health Expert at Landys Chemist
Berberine has been linked to improving symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and diabetes by supporting insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control, and overall metabolc health.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top berberine supplements on the market, their benefits, and safety considerations.
What is Berberine?
Berberine is a natural compound found in several plants, including goldenseal, barberry, and Oregon grape. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Chinese and Ayurvedic practices. Recently, berberine has gained popularity in the health and wellness community, earning the nickname "Nature's Ozempic" due to its potential effects on metabolic health, which may help with weight loss.
Why is Berberine Popular?
We spoke to our nutritionists and pharmacists at Landys Chemist to understand the growing interest in berberine, here’s what we found;
- Berberine can support blood sugar control
- It can help in managing insulin sensitivity, a common feature in both diabetes and PCOS
- It may assist with weight management due to its role in metabolic health
- Promoting better cardiovascular health
What Do Berberine Supplements Help With?
To further understand the benefits of berberine, we’ve looked at research and clinical studies which have been found to help with:
- Diabetes Management: Berberine has been shown to significantly lower blood glucose levels, making it an effective supplement for managing type 2 diabetes.
- Insulin Resistance: Berberine enhances the body's response to insulin, making it beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or pre-diabetes.
- PCOS: Women with PCOS often struggle with insulin resistance, and berberine can help by improving insulin sensitivity, balancing hormones, and aiding in weight management.
- Blood Sugar Control: Berberine can effectively reduce postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose spikes. It also activates enzymes that improve glucose metabolism and help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Weight Management: Berberine assists in fat loss by enhancing metabolic function and increasing the activity of brown fat, which burns calories.
- Cardiovascular Health: Berberine supports cardiovascular health by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels. It may also lower blood pressure and promote overall heart health.
Is It Safe to Take Berberine Daily?
Berberine is generally considered safe for daily use, but it’s important to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Typical dosages range from 500mg to 1500mg per day, often divided into multiple doses. Some potential side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhoea or constipation, especially when starting supplementation.
It's always best to start with a lower dose to assess tolerance and gradually increase as needed. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional can help ensure that berberine supplementation is safe and effective for your individual health needs.
Best Berberine Supplements
At Landys Chemist we have a range of high-quality berberine supplements available for you to discover. We’ve gathered our top 4 berberine supplements based of price point, quality, dosage, and more:
Natroceutics Berberine Complex Capsules 60
Natroceutics Berberine Complex stands out with its combination formula, which includes other synergistic ingredients like alpha-lipoic acid and chromium. This makes it a great option for those looking for a comprehensive approach to metabolic health. Each capsule contains 500 mg of berberine, and the added ingredients provide additional support. The price is on the higher end, but the comprehensive formula justifies the cost.
Nutri Advanced Berberine 250 Capsules 60
Nutri Advanced Berberine 250 provides a lower dose per capsule compared to some other brands, at 250mg. This can be beneficial for those who are new to berberine supplementation and wish to start with a lower dose to assess tolerance. These capsules are also praised for their purity and lack of fillers. The price point is moderate, reflecting its high-quality sourcing and manufacturing processes.
NaturesPlus Berberine PRO 750mg 60 Capsules
NaturesPlus Berberine PRO offers a high potency of 750mg per capsule, making it one of the more concentrated options on the market. This supplement is designed to support glucose metabolism and cardiovascular health. The high dosage per capsule means you only need to take one per day, which is convenient for those with busy lifestyles. Priced competitively, it offers a good balance of quality and value.
NOW Foods Berberine Glucose Support Softgels 90
NOW Foods Berberine Glucose Support Softgels offer a unique delivery system in the form of softgels, which can be easier to swallow and digest for some users. Each softgel contains 400mg of berberine, making it a middle-ground option in terms of dosage. This product is well-regarded for its affordability and effectiveness, particularly in supporting blood glucose levels and metabolic health.
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