A bitter herb known as Berberine has been shown to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism. This study compared Berberine with a popular diabetes drug, Metformin. Berberine proved to be just as effective as Metformin in lowering Hemoglobin A1C, fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and triglycerides. In addition, total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (“bad cholesterol”) were lowered as well.

This makes sense due to Berberine’s effect on the liver. Naturopathic doctors often give Berberine when there is liver stagnation or congestion. Berberine is a bitter herb and an alterative, helping to cleanse and detoxify the body. We know that Metformin improves hyperglycemia through its suppression of hepatic (liver) production of glucose. Berberine likely has a similar effect on the liver.

While Berberine can be promising in the treatment of type 2 diabetes by lowering blood glucose and lipid levels, it is still not the end-all-be-all. Diet must always be considered in the treatment of diabetes to truly get to the root cause. A diet rich in plants and lean proteins (fish and organic poultry) and good sources of fat (avocado, olive oil, nuts) is an effective dietary approach. Think “caveman diet.”

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.