Research summary
Berberine and Fasting Blood Glucose in Type 2 Diabetes
In adults with type 2 diabetes, pooled randomized-trial evidence suggests berberine may be associated with lower fasting blood glucose, although the underlying trials are limited.[1]
What the pooled trials report
A meta-analysis of randomized trials in adults with type 2 diabetes suggests that berberine may be associated with lower fasting blood glucose. This evidence is specific to adults with type 2 diabetes, not the general or healthy public.[1]
How strong is the evidence
Current human evidence for berberine and blood glucose comes mainly from small, heterogeneous trials of limited quality, and it does not establish a benefit for people without type 2 diabetes.[1]
Important limitations
The pooled trials show high statistical heterogeneity, are mostly of low-to-moderate quality, and show signs of publication bias. The glucose-lowering effect diminished in trials beyond about 90 days and above about 2 grams per day.[1]
This is general information, not medical advice or a treatment recommendation, and berberine is not a substitute for prescribed therapy.[1]
References
- Effects of berberine on blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic literature review and a meta-analysis. Endocrine Journal. 2019. Systematic review and meta-analysis View source →