Berberine is a natural compound found in several different plants, among which is Barberry, the Latin name of which is berberis vulgaris, from which berberine gets its name.

Berberine has been touted for a number of benefits, including weight loss (through increasing metabolism and suppressing appetite), blood sugar control (by reducing blood sugar production by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity), improving blood lipid levels and cardiovascular health, and improving gut health by re-balancing the gut microbiome - more on that last one shortly.

A handful of new research studies indicate that berberine can be beneficial for preventing colorectal cancer as well – through more than one mechanism of action.

Going back to the gut microbiome, there’s a particular bacteria that is associated with the formation of adenomas, or polyps as they’re more commonly known, in the colon. Adenomas are pre-cancerous masses that sometimes develop into malignant colorectal cancer after a period of years. Anyway, people who are prone to developing colon adenomas tend to have elevated levels of a particular gut bacteria and it is thought that bacteria encourages adenoma growth. Berberine appears to inhibit that bacteria and shifts the gut microbiome in a more generally healthy direction, thereby reducing the potential for adenoma growth.

But that’s not the only way that berberine reduces the risk of colon cancer. Remember the part about it enhancing blood sugar control? Well, another recent study found that berberine has another effect tied to blood sugar (glucose) – it inhibits the glucose metabolism of cancer cells – essentially starving them of energy.

That’s two pretty helpful effects in reducing colon cancer risk!

So, what about side-effects? Berberine is reported to cause gastrointestinal symptoms like cramping and diarrhea in sensitive individuals, or in those taking extra large doses. It may also interact with blood thinners and some diabetes medications, so it’s important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before trying it if you’re taking one those types of medication.

If you’re considering taking it primarily for the reduced colon cancer risk, be aware that berberine is not a stand-alone. It’s still important to eat a healthy diet with adequate fiber, and to avoid other cancer-promoting lifestyle factors such as smoking. If you don’t have a family or personal history of colon cancer or a high tendency to develop polyps, berberine is probably not the highest priority for you in terms of what supplements to take. But those with such a history would probably do well to consider taking berberine.

In terms of dosage, most people do well in the range of 600 - 1000 mg per day in 2 or more divided doses (for example, 300 to 500 mg twice a day). Those with a higher risk of colon cancer or have any of the other health concerns mentioned earlier may wish to go to 1500 mg per day, although it is advisable to start at a lower dose and work up in order to avoid gastrointestinal side-effects.

Until next time…

George F. Best, D.C.