With so many artificial, patented weight loss medicines available in the market, most of us often ignore the natural alternatives to them. But in reality, those natural weight loss remedies are far more effective and safe than the corporate profits-driven supplements. One such natural solution is ‘Berberine,’ which hinders fat storage and improves hormonal functions to keep visceral fat away and control central obesity. This wonder herb can quickly push your weight loss efforts to a great extent by providing other benefits. Let’s talk about it.
What is Berberine?
Berberine, a bioactive alkaloid derived from specific plants, manifests as a vibrant yellow compound. Its multifaceted properties extend beyond its distinct hue, encompassing a spectrum of advantages such as immune enhancement, potent anti-fungal capabilities, antibacterial effectiveness, and notable anti-inflammatory attributes. Renowned for centuries, Berberine remains a staple in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines, drawing attention for its diverse therapeutic potential rooted in its complex chemical structure and biological properties. (1) (2)
Origin And Source
Berberine has been a staple in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines for years. But Western medicine’s recent ‘discovery’ of this herb has brought it to the limelight. The alkaloid is found in the plants of the Berberidaceae family and others (goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, phellodendron, tree turmeric, guduchi, amur cork tree, etc.) and is typically isolated from their barks.
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Studies And Findings
Berberine has been a subject of study for researchers for the last few years. It is already proven that the herb has immense positive effects on our health and body, including lowered levels of sugar in the bloodstream, decreased blood pressure, improved cardiac health, enhanced strength, and so forth. Following are two studies which show the outcomes of using Berberine for weight loss:
Study 1:
It was a 12-week study in which a bunch of overweight individuals (irrespective of men and women) were chosen to use Berberine over all other weight loss therapies. During the study period, each was given 500 mg of Berberine thrice daily before mealtime. After 12 weeks, it was found that almost all of them lost more or less 3.6% of body fat and nearly 5 lbs of body weight.
Study 2:
It was another 3-month study in which 37 individuals (including both men and women) with metabolic syndrome were selected for using Berberine. They were given 300 mg of the herb thrice every day during the whole period of study. After three months, it was found that the Body Mass Index (BMI) levels of all the study participants went from 31.5 to 27.4. They were also seen to lose fat around the mid-areas of their body.
Several other studies show that Berberine works directly at the molecular level and restricts the growth and development of fat cells to promote weight loss.
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How Does It Work?
Now, let’s dive into Berberine, which naturally burns body fat and reduces weight. It works through various mechanisms, but the most crucial is ‘AMPK activation.’ We’ve explained it below:
Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase or AMPK is a ‘metabolic master switch.’ An enzyme inside our cells regulates bodily metabolism through various biological activities. Berberine, when consumed, reaches our cells through the bloodstream and improves the functions of two AMPK-activating hormones named ‘leptin’ and ‘adiponectin’ in our body, which offers the following benefits:
- Boosted glucose uptake into the cells
- Better sensitivity to insulin
- Lesser glucose generation within the liver
- Increased fat burning inside mitochondria
- Lesser deposition of harmful fat inside cells
Apart from AMPK activation, various other mechanisms of Berberine include:
- Increasing the effectiveness of insulin to reduce the resistance of the body to it
- Slowing down the release of fatty acids into the bloodstream, thereby decreasing lipid levels
- Decelerating the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract
- Amplifying the number of probiotics within the digestive tract
In essence, Berberine helps us lose belly fat and keeps us healthy.
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Dosage And Side Effects
As said before, Berberine is a natural herb that is safe to use. However, excessive oral intake of this alkaloid will lead to limited absorption and eventually result in indigestion, stomach pain, cramping, nausea, flatulence, constipation, diarrhea, etc. However, there has been no report of ‘severe toxicity’. The expert-recommended dosage of Berberine is 500 mg 2 to 3 times a day before having meals. Ensure you consult your physician before taking Berberine, especially if you are experiencing severe medical conditions.
It is important to remember that Berberine doesn’t work like so-called ‘magic pills’ that claim to ‘melt away fat in just a couple of weeks.’ It inhibits fat storage in our tissues while beautifully supporting our overall health. So, kick-start your weight loss journey with Berberine today – naturally, safely and effectively.
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Summary
Explore the potent weight loss remedy, Berberine, a plant alkaloid. It’s now gaining Western recognition and has long been embraced in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Numerous studies demonstrate its efficacy in reducing body fat and promoting overall health. Berberine activates AMPK, a metabolic regulator, facilitating glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity, and fat burning. While it’s safe, moderation is vital, with expert-recommended dosages of 500 mg 2-3 times daily before meals. Berberine isn’t a quick fix but a natural, safe, and effective companion in your weight loss journey.
