Why Berberine is Nature’s Metformin

My doctor prescribed metformin for me years ago, which was surprising because it was only used to treat Type II diabetes. But she reassured me doctors were prescribing it for Type Is to help manage their blood sugars. While it decreased my after-meal sugars to the normal ranges, it also gave me the horrible side effects that metformin is famous for. As always, I sought natural remedies, which led me to berberine, known as nature’s metformin.

What is Berberine?

Berberine is a chemical found in plants like European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, and tree turmeric. 

Studies on Berberine

Berberine may reduce glucose production in your liver and improve insulin sensitivity. Studies show that berberine can lower blood sugar levels to a similar extent as metformin and is also effective for high cholesterol.

In a study, 36 patients were randomly assigned to metformin or berberine. “Compared with metformin, berberine exhibited an identical effect in the regulation of glucose metabolism, such as HbA1c, FBG, PBG, fasting insulin, and postprandial insulin. In the regulation of lipid metabolism, berberine activity is better than metformin. By week 13, triglycerides and total cholesterol in the berberine group had decreased and were significantly lower than in the metformin group” (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2410097/).

Metformin Recall and Warnings

Metformin can cause a serious condition known as lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactic acid in the bloodstream. In people with lactic acidosis, the liver cannot remove excess acid from their body, which can be life threatening.

Also, metformin has been recalled in the past because of possible cancer-causing ingredients. In 2020, Viona Pharmaceuticals voluntarily recalled 23 lots of Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets because of the presence of the probable carcinogen NDMA.

Finally, researchers from the University of Southern Denmark and Stanford University found boys were more likely to be born with genital birth defects if their fathers took metformin in the three months before conception.

Berberine Side Effects/Interactions

However, berberine is not without issues. Berberine may slow blood clotting, lower blood sugar, and lower blood pressure. It may interact with medications changed and broken down by the liver, and medications that slow blood clotting. In addition, taking berberine along with a sedative might cause too much sleepiness.

Similarities

Metformin and berberine share many similar characteristics. Both decrease glucose production in the liver. They also activate AMPK. So, what is AMPK you ask? It stands for AMP-activated protein kinase and is a metabolism regulator. When activated, AMPK will use stored energy from fats, and remove fat and sugar from the blood. It also improves insulin sensitivity.

Other Natural Ways to Increase AMPK

Natural ways to increase AMPK include exercising, restricting calories, and consuming blueberries, grapefruit, green tea, and chili peppers. Resveratrol, found in red grapes and wine, is a potent activator of AMPK.

Too Similar Sometimes

Although berberine is natural, it can cause the same side effects as metformin. While it stabilized my blood sugars, unfortunately, as with metformin, it also gave me horrible side effects, which included diarrhea, gas, and upset stomach. My brother, who has Type 2 diabetes, has been taking berberine for years with no problems. So, not everyone has side effects, but it is something to be aware of. 

Conclusion

If you are worried about metformin’s possible adverse effects, consider its natural counterpart, berberine. However, like metformin, berberine may also cause the same upset stomach symptoms and can interact with other medications. Like metformin, it can also cause low blood sugar. Do not take berberine without letting your doctor know, especially if you are already on other diabetic medication. If your doctor gives you the green light to use it, watch for side effects and possible interactions. And always monitor your blood sugar.

In the News

Thirty-two years ago, Peter Oliver spent a week living on top of a 40 foot flagpole at Toronto’s Mel Lastman Square to raise money for Type I diabetes research. His daughter, Vanessa, was diagnosed with diabetes at age six.

Vanessa will soon follow in her father’s footsteps. From April 4-8 she will spend 100 hours in a 40 foot flagpole outside Toronto’s General Hospital to raise money for the Junior Diabetes Research Foundation. To make a donation, go to canadacuresdiabetes.ca.

Quote

“Life is not over because you have diabetes. Make the most of what you have, be grateful.”

Dale Evans (American actress and singer)

Disclaimer

Please remember this is not medical advice or intended to replace the advice of your doctor. This is my experience with the natural supplements that have helped me manage my diabetes.  They are not intended to cure any disease. Please do not self-diagnose. Always check with your health care provider before trying new treatments.

Also, natural does not mean safe. Many natural remedies have side effects and can interact with medication and supplements. It should be noted that the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements but treats them like foods and not medication. Unlike drug manufacturers, supplement makers do not have to show their products are safe or effective.

I ask you to please keep an open mind; be a diabetic detective and do your own research; work with your healthcare team; see what works best for you, and monitor your blood sugars.