Social media figures are buzzing about yet another weight loss ‘hack’ they are referring to as ‘Nature’s Ozempic’. The supplement they’re referring to is a dietary supplement called berberine.
Although it is new to many, berberine has been around for a very long time. In fact, it was used in ancient Chinese medicine practices for it’s many medicinal properties. In the present time, there are various claims being thrown around the internet about it’s efficacy for weight loss; however, taking what is being said online at face value can be dangerous and unhelpful.
In this blog, we will take you through the ins and outs of berberine, and its potential impact on the eating disorder community.
What is Berberine?
Berberine is a chemical compound that comes from a handful of plants like the European barberry, goldenseal and goldthread. It is bitter-tasting and yellow in colour. Typically, it is taken as a supplement in a pill capsule. You may have heard it referred to as “natural ozempic purple pill” or “ozempic hack.”
What Does Berberine Do?
There are many claims out there about what it does, and much is still unknown about it. It seems to aid in many biological processes in our bodies. Here is a list of some discoveries that have been made about berberine:
- May improve insulin-resistance
- May have hypoglycemic properties
- May antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties
- May lower cholesterol and reduce risk of heart disease
- May improve gut health
- May affect body composition and lower fat content
NOTE: Although many claims have been made about berberine, it is not an alternative to a prescription medication used to treat any of the ailments it claims to relieve.
Who Should Use Berberine?
It can be bought without a prescription by anyone in Canada; however, this does not mean it is safe for everyone to take. Berberine should only be taken by individuals who have consulted a healthcare professional.
Is It Safe?
Berberine is generally considered safe; however, it does have a collection of side effects associated with it including:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Gas
- Upset stomach
Individuals who are pregnant should not take berberine – it can cross the placenta and cause harm to the fetus.
Berberine and Weight Loss
Not too long ago, Ozempic was the most recent “weight-loss” fad. As we know, Ozempic is a drug for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes that may lead to a small amount of temporary weight loss.
Now, we are being presented with a “natural” alternative to Ozempic – berberine. Some studies have found a moderate amount of weight loss in humans and rats that took it as a supplement; however, it is not the same amount of weight loss that people on TikTok and YouTube are claiming to have experienced. It is important to reflect on what we read online and consider the possible over-exaggeration of some of these ‘miracle’ supplements.
If you or a loved one could benefit from repairing your relationship with food or your body, a further conversation with one of our clinicians may be helpful. You can book a free consultation call below.
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