BERBERINE
What is Berberine?
Berberine is an alkaloid. Plants such as Oregon grape, goldenseal, barberry, and golden thread contain berberine. People have used it as a form of natural medicine in India and China for hundreds of years.
These include poor blood sugar regulation, high cholesterol,
and poor vision. It helps lower high blood pressure and more. So, should you supplement your diet
with this alkaloid? Read on to learn more about how berberine benefits your overall health.
Controls Diabetes
Studies have shown that it lowers glucose levels in people with diabetes. Scientists believe it helps
regulate blood sugar by reducing how much glucose the liver produces. In one study, diabetic patients
took a 500 mg berberine supplement twice daily. The supplements control blood sugar levels as
effectively as rosiglitazone and metformin. If you have diabetes, don’t immediately stop taking your prescribed diabetic medication and replace it with it – talk to your doctor first to see if it is right for you.
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Lowers Cholesterol
If you suffer from high cholesterol, a berberine supplement could help. It benefits your heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. A twice-daily dose of 500 mg of berberine lowered “bad” (LDL) cholesterol
in as little as three months. In a series of 11 trials studying 800 people, it also increased “good” cholesterol (HDL), and significantly reduced triglycerides.
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Heart-Healthy
Some research has shown that taking berberine supplements can reduce symptoms in patients with
heart failure. Studies also showed a significant reduction in fatalities in those suffering from congestive
heart failure. It can also restore blood flow to the heart following a stroke.
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Berberine and Weight Loss
Add a berberine supplement to your diet! In one study, obese patients lost weight when taking
berberine supplements regularly for at least three months. Berberine helps control leptin levels in
people with metabolic syndrome, which reduces hunger and helps control weight. Berberine
supplements may also inhibit the production of fat cells. Women suffering from polycystic ovary
syndrome (PCOS) can also benefit from a berberine supplement. It helps control testosterone levels,
reduce blood sugar and improve the waist-to-hip ratio in women who suffer from the disease.
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Brain Health
Berberine may have neuroprotective effects and may help improve cognitive function.
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MATCHA GREEN TEA
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What is Matcha Green Tea Good For?
Matcha green tea offers many benefits for diabetics due to its unique properties and nutritional
content. However, it's important to note that individual responses can vary, and people with diabetes should always consult their healthcare provider before making significant changes to their diet or
lifestyle. Here are some potential benefits of matcha green tea for diabetics:
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Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha is known to be high in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which have
been associated with improved insulin sensitivity and reduced oxidative stress. These antioxidants may
help protect cells from damage caused by high blood sugar levels.
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Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies suggest that the compounds found in matcha green tea
could contribute to better blood sugar regulation by enhancing insulin function and reducing insulin resistance. This may help individuals with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels more effectively.
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Moderate Caffeine Content: Matcha contains caffeine, which can help improve alertness and metabolism. For diabetics, a moderate intake of caffeine may help enhance insulin sensitivity
and glucose tolerance.
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Low In Calories: Matcha itself is quite low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a suitable
beverage option for those looking to control their calorie and carbohydrate intake. It can be a good alternative to sugary drinks or high-carb beverages that can negatively impact blood sugar levels.
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Weight Management: Matcha has been suggested to have a positive impact on weight
management due to its potential to increase metabolic rate and aid in fat oxidation. Maintaining
a healthy weight is important for managing diabetes and its related complications.
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Promotes Relaxation:​ The amino acid L-theanine found in matcha can have calming effects and
help promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. Stress management is crucial for people with
diabetes, as stress hormones can affect blood sugar levels.
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Gentle Energy Boost: The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha provides a sustained
and focused energy boost, which can be beneficial for diabetics who want to avoid sudden spikes
and crashes in energy levels.
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Improving Lipid Profile: Some research suggests that regular consumption of matcha may help
improve lipid profiles by reducing levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. This can contribute to
better cardiovascular health, which is important for individuals with diabetes who are at a higher risk
of heart-related complications.
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It's important to note that more research is needed to understand the potential benefits of berberine supplements fully, and they should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regime.
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