Berberine For Weight Loss Reviews​: Does It Really Help?

Recently, berberine is a natural active ingredient that has been widely used in medicine because many studies have confirmed its health benefits. Among the undeniable benefits, most users are interested in whether berberine helps with weight loss. Let’s listen to the reviews on berberine for weight loss in the following article to find out the answer and refer to the ideal berberine supplements.

What is Berberine?

Berberine is a common compound found in European goldenseal, barberry, tree turmeric, Oregon grape, phellodendron, and turmeric plants (primarily in the roots, rhizomes, or bark). This compound is easily recognized by its distinct yellow color (sometimes yellow-orange) and its bitter taste [1].

For over 3,000 years, berberine has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and in South Asia to help manage infections or ulcers. Additionally, historical evidence shows that people in South America, the Middle East, and Europe have used berberine to support wound healing and alleviate discomfort associated with various health conditions (such as diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome) [2].

What Are the Benefits of Berberine?

Berberine has demonstrated clear benefits for:

• Releasing Mouth Ulcers: In a study conducted on 84 participants who used a berberine gel (5mg/g) 4-5 times a day, the size of the ulcers significantly reduced, showing reduced swelling and pain [5].
• Regulating Blood Sugar Levels: In a clinical trial of 80 type 2 diabetes patients, those given 480 mg of Berberis integerrima root showed blood sugar reductions comparable to those taking 1000 mg of metformin over three months. This demonstrates a safe and effective therapy to support diabetes management [3].
• Enhancing Heart Health: A 2017 study found that taking 1.2–2.0 g of berberine daily for 12 weeks helped reduce symptoms of atrial fibrillation, with effectiveness similar to amiodarone and no side effects. Additionally, berberine can lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients and limit mucosal damage, supporting cardiovascular health [4].
• Alleviating Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): In a study with women suffering from PCOS, participants who took 500 mg of berberine hydrochloride showed more promising hormone and lipid profiles than those who took metformin hydrochloride or Myo-inositol highlighting berberine’s potential for safely managing PCOS symptoms [5].
• Improving Cognitive Health: Research indicates that berberine enhances cholinergic neurotransmission, improves blood flow, and protects neural cells from inflammation [6].
• Supporting Gut Health: Due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties, berberine helps stabilize gut flora by promoting beneficial bacteria and inhibiting harmful bacterial overgrowth [7].

Does Berberine Really Help with Weight Loss?

Beyond these benefits, numerous studies suggest that berberine may support weight loss. Research by Pan Xiong et al. (2020) and Omid Asbaghi et al. (2020) revealed reductions in waist circumference and BMI for participants taking berberine without negative effects like fatigue or appetite loss [8][9].

Additional studies on berberine’s role in weight loss include:

• Zahra Ilyas et al. (2020): Berberine helps regulate gut bacteria, prevents fat cell differentiation, and modulates cholesterol absorption, which can contribute to weight loss [10].
• Rosa Solà et al. (2014): A 12-week study found that berberine, used in a dietary supplement compound (Armolipid Plus) with red yeast rice extract, policosanol, folic acid, coenzyme Q10, and astaxanthin, was associated with weight loss, even without dietary changes [11].
• Yueshan Hu et al. (2022): After taking 500 mg of berberine three times daily for 12 weeks, participants lost an average of 5 pounds, demonstrating berberine’s modest weight loss effect for obese individuals [12].

While berberine offers these benefits, there are some limitations to consider:

• Berberine may interact with certain medications (e.g., cyclosporine, dextromethorphan, losartan) [1].
• In high doses (over 1,500 mg daily), berberine may cause side effects like diarrhea, constipation, and bloating [1].
• Research on berberine’s efficacy for weight loss is still relatively limited, so it’s best to proceed with caution.
• It is always advisable to consult a doctor before using berberine to ensure safety.

Based on the above analysis, berberine can be beneficial for weight loss, provided it suits your body type and health status. Clinical studies indicate that oral berberine supplements (e.g., capsules, tablets, powders) are the most convenient and effective way to use this compound. If you’re unsure which berberine supplements are best, read on to find the top recommendations!

Berberine Supplements for Weight Loss Review

Vinatura Berberine 1500 mg with Ceylon Cinnamon Powder | $37.89

Why Do We Choose It?

With 1,500 mg of berberine (90 capsules, 30 servings) at optimal purity, Vinatura Berberine 1500mg with Ceylon Cinnamon Powder supports immune health, efficient nutrient absorption, and energy conversion to prevent fat accumulation. Ceylon cinnamon adds a pleasant aroma and enhances overall physical and mental well-being. Rest assured that it’s free of artificial flavors, colors, and allergens.

Pros

• 100% natural ingredients, third-party tested
• Medium-sized capsules, easy to swallow
• Appropriate dosage without risk of overdose
• Quick results (some customers report benefits within 2-7 days)
• Transparent ingredient and usage instructions

Cons

• Some customers may not be used to the cinnamon scent.

Thorne Berberine 1000 mg | $40

Why We Choose It?

From the reputable supplement company Thorne, Thorne Berberine provides 1,000 mg of berberine per daily dose with high purity and no additives, processed under advanced, closed-loop production. This product is proven to support cardiovascular health, blood sugar regulation, and immune enhancement.

Pros

• Over 30 years of trusted expertise
• Quality and safety verified four times
• Reduces appetite and supports weight loss

Cons

• Known to reduce activity of cytochrome p450 enzymes (CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP3A4)
• Strong smell
• Some users experience nausea and heartburn

Swanson Berberine Supplement | $20

Why We Choose It?

Containing 400 mg of berberine with 97% purity per capsule, this supplement is an excellent option for those seeking comprehensive health support and weight maintenance. Swanson has over 50 years of industry experience, ensuring both safety and reliability.

Pros

• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Free from allergens
• Simple dosage
• Affordable price
• Notable weight loss results after the first cycle

Cons

• May cause heartburn and body aches

Theralogix Berberine | $74

Why We Choose It?

With an enhanced berberine phytosome formulation, this supplement provides 10 times better absorption than regular berberine, promoting lipid balance and gut health. Theralogix Berberine is NSF-certified and free from allergens, ensuring high safety standards.

Pros

• Easy to use, just one capsule per day
• Small, easy-to-swallow capsules
• Neutral taste and scent

Cons

• Requires more time to see positive results compared to other products
• Higher cost than other products

Pure Encapsulations Metabolic Xtra | $53

Why We Choose It?

Backed by 30 years of research, Pure Encapsulations Metabolic Xtra offers 350 mg of berberine HCl in an innovative formula (free from preservatives, additives, and allergens). It also contains chromium to enhance lipid metabolism and regulate blood sugar.

Pros

• Noticeable results after 2 months
• Effective as per label claims
• Doctor-recommended
• Contains four health-promoting ingredients in one capsule

Cons

• Requires multiple pills per day (2-6 capsules/day)

Things to Consider When Choosing a Berberine Supplement for Weight Loss

To select the right product, consider these key shopping criteria:

• Safety: Review the ingredient list and certifications. Look for credentials like GMP (third-party recognition in the supplement industry), NSF International (a WHO safety center), and USP – United States Pharmacopeia (US standards for pharmaceuticals).
• Brand: Prioritize trusted brands with extensive experience, such as Vinatura Supplements, Swanson, and Thorne. A strong reputation ensures quality and customer trust.
• Dosage: Clinical studies suggest that berberine can be effective at daily doses of up to 1,500 mg. Select products that provide this dosage to maximize health benefits.
• Effectiveness Timeline: Read customer reviews on sites like Amazon (check both 5-star and 1-star ratings) to gauge effectiveness and potential side effects.

Conclusion

With these berberine for weight loss reviews, we hope you now understand the benefits, ideal use, and top products for this compound. Using berberine safely can yield positive results without harming your health. Always consult your doctor if you are on prescription medication to determine if berberine is right for you and how to incorporate it safely.

References

[1]  berberineE: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. (2014). Webmd.com. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1126/ berberinee. 

[2] Key, A. P. (2020, November 13).  berberine: Benefits and Side Effects. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/obesity/ berberine-health-benefits. 

[3] Mojgan Sanjari, Behrang Shamsinejad, Payam Khazaeli, Safi, Z., Fatemeh Mirrashidi, & Naghibzadeh-Tahami, A. (2020). Safety and efficacy of Berberis integerrima root extract in patients with type 2 diabetes. A parallel intervention based triple blind clinical trial. Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders, 19(1), 71–80. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40200-019-00478-z. 

[4] Zheng, H., Zhu, F., Miao, P., Mao, Z., Redfearn, D. P., & Cao, R. Y. (2017). Antimicrobial Natural Product  berberine Is Efficacious for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation. BioMed Research International, 2017, 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/3146791.

[5] Jiang, X.-W., Zhang, Y., Zhu, Y.-L., Zhang, H., Lu, K., Li, F.-F., & Peng, H.-Y. (2012). Effects of  berberine gelatin on recurrent aphthous stomatitis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial in a Chinese cohort. Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology, 115(2), 212–217. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oooo.2012.09.009. 

[6] Shinjyo, N., Parkinson, J., Bell, J., Katsuno, T., & Bligh, A. (2020).  berberine for prevention of dementia associated with diabetes and its comorbidities: A systematic review. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 18(2), 125–151. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joim.2020.01.004. 

‌[7] Zou, K., Li, Z., Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., Li, B., Zhu, W., Shi, J., Jia, Q., & Li, Y. (2016). Advances in the study of  berberine and its derivatives: a focus on anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects in the digestive system. Acta Pharmacologica Sinica, 38(2), 157–167. https://doi.org/10.1038/aps.2016.125. 

[8] Xiong, P., Niu, L., Talaei, S., Kord-Varkaneh, H., Clark, C. C. T., Găman, M.-A., Rahmani, J., Dorosti, M., Mousavi, S. M., Zarezadeh, M., Taghizade-Bilondi, H., & Zhang, J. (2020). The effect of  berberine supplementation on obesity indices: A dose– response meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 39, 101113. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101113. 

‌[9] Omid Asbaghi, Ghanbari, N., Mahdi shekari, Reiner, Ž., Elaheh Amirani, Hallajzadeh, J., Liaosadat Mirsafaei, & Zatollah Asemi. (2020). The effect of  berberine supplementation on obesity parameters, inflammation and liver function enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 38, 43–49. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.04.010. 

[10] Ilyas, Z., Perna, S., Salwa Al-thawadi, Alalwan, T. A., Riva, A., Petrangolini, G., Gasparri, C., Infantino, V., Peroni, G., & Mariangela Rondanelli. (2020). The effect of  berberine on weight loss in order to prevent obesity: A systematic review. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 127, 110137–110137. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110137. 

[11] Solà, R., Valls, R.-M., Puzo, J., José-Ramón Calabuig, Brea, A., Pedret, A., Moriña, D., Villar, J., Jesús Millán, & Anguera, A. (2014). Effects of Poly-Bioactive Compounds on Lipid Profile and Body Weight in a Moderately Hypercholesterolemic Population with Low Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A Multicenter Randomized Trial. PLoS ONE, 9(8), e101978–e101978. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0101978. 

[12] Hu, Y., Ehli, E. A., Kittelsrud, J., Ronan, P. J., Munger, K., Downey, T., Bohlen, K., Callahan, L., Munson, V., Jahnke, M., Marshall, L. L., Nelson, K., Huizenga, P., Hansen, R., Soundy, T. J., & Davies, G. E. (2012). Lipid-lowering effect of  berberine in human subjects and rats. Phytomedicine, 19(10), 861–867. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2012.05.009.