Wow!  I can't believe how much talk Berberine is getting these days.  Just do a quick Tik Tok search to see what I mean.  Berberine is getting its time on stage, as a natural alternative to Ozempic.  Personally, I know many people who are taking Ozempic or another equivalent.  But, for those of us who like to minimize taking prescription pharmaceuticals, Berberine may be for you.  

Berberine is a chemical found in some plants like European barberry, goldenseal, oregon grape, etc.  It is bitter-tasting and yellow coloured.  

Disclaimer:  Now, let me start by saying that I do understand that other than those who take Ozempic for diabetes, people are taking it to loose weight.  At Dawn Rising, we avoid language around weight and choose to focus on body positivity (at any size) instead.

It's important to understand that Berberine has a long history (3000+ years) in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, so it not something new.  It makes me happy to see that a natural supplement is trending right alongside Ozempic.  I really wish that natural supplements weren't always pushed aside or deemed inferior to pharma.  Let us not forget that most of our modern day pharmaceuticals originated from plants.  

Personally, I started taking Berberine 6 months ago.  I cycle on and off of it, to give my body a reset.  I also like to cycle through three different brands (I have listed them at the end), to ensure that I am mixing things up for my body.  I started taking Berberine because I am 45 years young and was looking for help with the sugar cravings and mood swings I have noticed as a result of perimenopause.  

If you are a canna consumer and experience the munchies from time to time, Berberine will help cut the cravings . 

It is important to note that Berberine is used as a mild laxative, some people may experience stomach upset, diarrhea, constipation or gas.   

Benefits of Berberine   

1) Has been shown to significantly lower blood sugar levels.  I have found it to be effective in decreasing my sugar cravings.  Overall, when we eat less sugar, we have less body inflammation and mood swings.   

2) Berberine reduces your risk of heart disease, by lowering bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol.  

3) Berberine has also been shown to reduce symptoms of depression.  I am not suggesting to switch your anti-depressant medications for Berberine.  However, if you experience PMS or perimenopause mood swings, Berberine may help.  

How much should you take?

It is recommended to take anywhere in the range of 500mg - 1500mg a day.  If you are on the higher end, take 500mg, 3 x day, before food.

I suggest muscle testing or pendulum work to determine a personalized dosage for you.  Trust that the innate wisdom of your body will guide you to a dosage that works for you.  It is important to muscle test again after a month of taking Berberine to see if your dosage can be decreased or if you should take a break.  

My Fave Berberine Supplements:

1)  Renew Actives
*Vegan friendly.     

2)  Preferred Nutrition Berberine
*Vegetarian capsule.  

3)  Solaray Berberine Root Extract
*Vegetarian capsule.  

This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.

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