Berberine: Is This Supplement Truly 'Nature's Ozempic?' Experts Weigh In

Berberine: Is This Supplement Truly 'Nature's Ozempic?' Experts Weigh In

You may have noticed this compound on pharmacy shelves. Berberine, traditionally used in herbal medicine, is now widely available as a supplement in stores across the United States. Interest in berberine supplements surged in 2023, with Google searches hitting a record high in June. TikTok is filled with videos discussing its potential for weight loss, with some even calling it "nature's Ozempic." Beyond weight loss, berberine may offer other benefits. Recent research, as per Healthline, has explored its role in supporting heart health and reducing blood sugar levels. How do berberine supplements stack up against prescription medications? Here's what experts say.

What is Berberine? Details on its Makeup and Benefits

Berberine is a chemical compound extracted from plants such as barberry, tree turmeric, goldenseal, and goldenthread, all of which have a long history in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Alma Simmons, a registered dietitian nutritionist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, previously stated that berberine offers numerous potential benefits, ranging from supporting weight loss to regulating blood sugar. Simmons explains that, on a cellular level, berberine supports various functions. "One of its primary functions involves activating AMPK, a crucial enzyme that regulates metabolism," she stated. "It also improves the body's ability to respond to insulin, allowing cells to absorb glucose more efficiently." Dr. Lona Sandon, a registered dietitian nutritionist and associate professor of clinical nutrition at UT Southwestern, noted that berberine could benefit heart health by lowering triglycerides (blood fat), total and LDL cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure. A review of berberine's effects on heart health identified studies supporting this, but researchers suggested additional clinical trials due to a high risk of bias.

Berberine vs. Ozempic

Do berberine supplements provide a natural alternative to medications like Ozempic, as many social media users suggest? Brian Lee, a pharmacist at UCLA Health, previously stated that while "berberine has shown to aid in weight loss, it operates through different mechanisms compared to Ozempic." Ozempic and Wegovy are brand names for semaglutide, prescription GLP-1 agonists that promote weight loss by slowing digestion and decreasing appetite, according to Lee. These medications have been tested and approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, with Wegovy targeting weight loss and Ozempic treating Type 2 diabetes. Studies have confirmed semaglutide's positive effects on weight loss. On the other hand, berberine supplements activate AMPK enzymes, which regulate metabolism, potentially aiding weight loss, Lee explained. Regarding studies measuring berberine's impact on weight loss, Sandon stated that "existing studies do not include weight loss as an end point." These studies typically speculate on the potential for weight loss benefits. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, some studies support berberine’s weight loss potential, while others have yielded inconclusive results. Health tracking apps like Shotlee can help monitor any changes when taking new supplements. Lee emphasized that when comparing medications like Ozempic or Wegovy to an herbal supplement such as berberine, "there is more proven data with GLP-1 agonists for weight loss because it is FDA-approved." He advises consulting with your health care provider or pharmacist before considering berberine supplements for weight loss.

Who Shouldn't Take Berberine?

Simmons advised against berberine supplements for young children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. Lee noted that berberine interacts with certain medications, such as diabetes, blood pressure, and antiseizure medications, making it crucial to consult with a health care provider before taking any herbal supplement. If you are cleared to take berberine, there are potential side effects to consider. Simmons stated that berberine can disrupt your gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, gas, and abdominal pain. She also mentioned that berberine might increase bilirubin levels, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. Sandon concluded that "it is crucial to remember that supplements do not undergo the same safety and efficacy testing as prescription medications." She recommends sticking to well-known brands and seeking third-party testing when choosing a supplement.