Close to one-third of Americans suffer from high cholesterol, increasing their likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. While statins remain the preferred treatment for managing cholesterol levels, many individuals prefer natural alternatives like berberine, a plant compound used for centuries in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.
Berberine activates AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase), an enzyme that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism. Acting as a master switch for energy balance, AMPK helps optimize metabolic processes, potentially lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
By activating AMPK, berberine enables cells to burn fat for fuel rather than storing it, which may explain its ability to lower cholesterol and enhance metabolic function.
Berberine might increase the number of LDL receptors in your liver. These receptors absorb LDL particles from the bloodstream for breakdown, thereby reducing levels of "bad" cholesterol.
Multiple studies have shown that berberine can decrease triglyceride levels by 25–35%. High triglycerides are often associated with elevated LDL and increase the risk of heart disease.
Research suggests that berberine may influence how the liver produces cholesterol. Although it doesn't work exactly like statins, its effect is similar: reducing LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream.
A growing body of research indicates that berberine could alter gut bacteria balance, promoting better cholesterol metabolism. While intriguing, this field of study is still in its infancy.
Berberine may reduce markers of chronic inflammation, a condition linked to heart disease and high cholesterol. Its anti-inflammatory properties are promising, but the full extent of its role in lowering cholesterol remains unclear.
Some evidence suggests berberine can decrease dietary cholesterol absorption in the intestines; however, findings are inconsistent, and additional research is needed.
Berberine is a bright yellow compound derived from the barberry plant (Berberis). Goldenseal, tree turmeric, and Oregon grape also contain it.
Berberis- Berberine is available over-the-counter in capsule or tablet form.
- Its vibrant yellow color has historically been used as a fabric dye.
- It doesn't require a prescription, but there is significant hype around it.
Use of this dietary supplement has increased for:
- Metabolic health
- Weight loss
- Reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance essential for cell building and hormone production. Your liver produces most of it, with some coming from your diet. There are two main types:
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein): This "bad" cholesterol can build up in arteries.
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein): Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove excess LDL.
High levels of LDL (hypercholesterolemia) contribute to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, or stroke.
While berberine may help lower cholesterol, it lacks the extensive evidence backing statins, which remain the first line of defense for high LDL levels.
Before using berberine as a lipid treatment, consult your healthcare provider about any prescription medications you're taking.
Important lifestyle changes that can also play a crucial role in lowering cholesterol include:
- Improving diet
- Increasing physical activity
- Managing stress
Berberine could be an option if you have:
- Mildly elevated cholesterol or triglycerides
- Intolerance to statins
- A desire to complement lifestyle changes with a natural supplement
The typical dosage is 500 mg taken two to three times daily with meals. Dividing the dose helps maintain steady blood levels since berberine clears from the body quickly.
Clinical trials demonstrated that taking 500 mg of berberine two to three times a day for 8–12 weeks led to:
- A decrease in "bad" LDL cholesterol by up to 20–25%
- A reduction in triglycerides by 25–35%
- A modest increase in "good" HDL cholesterol
While promising, more comprehensive studies are needed to confirm berberine's long-term effects on lowering cholesterol.
Because berberine can alter the way your body breaks down drugs, it should not be taken as an additional supplement without consulting your healthcare provider—especially if you're using statins, diabetes medication, or blood thinners.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting berberine to ensure its safety for you.
Berberine is generally well-tolerated but can cause digestive side effects upon initiation, including:
- Nausea
- Gas or bloating
- Diarrhea
People with liver disease, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, should avoid berberine.
Since it can interfere with medication breakdown, consult a healthcare provider if you're taking any prescription drugs.
In the U.S., the FDA does not strictly regulate dietary supplements like prescription medications. As a result, some products might not contain the ingredients listed on their labels. Look for independently tested or certified supplement brands such as those approved by NSF, U.S. Pharmacopeia, or ConsumerLab.com.
For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.