Berberine and metformin are two important drug supplements used for controlling blood sugar levels. However, Berberine is a natural supplement that is often associated with minimal to no side effects, unlike Metformin. Hence, there is a growing number of people who choose berberine supplements over Metformin. In this article, we'll find out where these two are similar and where they differ.
What is Berberine?
Berberine is a compound found in the barberry shrub. It is used because of its healing properties. Although berberine benefits are plenty, one of its most promising features is to help with blood sugar issues.
Berberine is an alkaloid that may increase the activity of AMPK enzymes and slow down the metabolic pathway, essentially reducing inflammation. It also has been shown to have anti-aging effects. It increases the life span of those who consume it.
What is Metformin?
Metformin is a synthetic compound extracted from the French lilac. People use metformin to reduce glucose levels in the blood and treat PCOS. However, people combine it with other drugs to help manage their weight and alleviate the ailments of diabetes.
People choose to use metformin because it helps lower the risks of mortality caused by diabetes, helping patients to achieve a better quality of life. It isn't without its side effects though - metformin may cause a lot of indigestion and other side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Berberine Vs. Metformin
Although both compounds work in the same way, activating AMPK enzymes that reduce blood sugar levels, people are confused when choosing between berberine and metformin.
Berberine and Metformin both stimulate the body's consumption of glucose. The drugs inhibit the transportation of complex 1, which puts a strain on ATP production. Energy is used up faster when that happens, resulting in potential weight loss.
Several scientific studies have been done to compare Metformin and Berberine. The conclusion was that both drugs had an effect on blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes but in different ways. Although the two drugs are structurally different in their chemical composition, they act similarly in their function.
Berberine and Metformin Uses
Currently, some studies seek to discover various ways in which Berberine and metformin can increasingly benefit human health. Metformin and Berberine are some of the most potent geroprotectants that exist today.
Some research shows that combining these two medications may be more effective than taking one or the other alone, however it is important to talk with your healthcare provider before taking these medications together or making any significant changes to your supplement routine.