If you are not already aware of the amazing herbal supplement called berberine then it is time for you to read this. Berberine has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for its various health benefits. Berberine exhibits a wide range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic effects. However, berberine's clinical use has been limited by its poor bioavailability and short half-life, which means that ingesting it orally may not be an effective way to achieve its therapeutic effects.
Dihydroberberine (GlucoVantage®), however, has overcome these limitations by improving its absorption and retention in the body. In fact, dihydroberberine has been shown to be up to five times more bioavailable and last twice as long as regular berberine(2), making it the ideal choice for those seeking a natural and effective remedy for metabolic health issues. Research has shown that dihydroberberine supplementation can benefit optimal blood glucose levels, healthy cholesterol and lipid metabolism. It is also known for its ability to support cardiovascular health. With the high prevalence of metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, insulin resistance, and heart diseases, we can see how these conditions create significant public health challenges. Fortunately, recent research has revealed that dihydroberberine is a highly effective natural therapy that can address these health challenges with remarkable efficacy.
Dihydroberberine offers numerous health benefits, backed by an extensive body of scientific evidence. Here are the most notable ones:
Maintaining Optimal Blood Glucose Levels and Improving Insulin Sensitivity(1)
One of the most well-researched benefits of dihydroberberine is its ability to regulate blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar by signaling the body's cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. In people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, the cells become resistant to insulin, leading to chronically high blood sugar levels.
Dihydroberberine has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity by activating an enzyme called adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK plays a crucial role in regulating glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and energy balance. By activating AMPK, dihydroberberine can promote glucose uptake by the cells, decrease glucose production in the liver, and enhance insulin sensitivity, leading to better blood sugar control.
Promoting Healthy Cholesterol and Lipid Metabolism(3)
Dihydroberberine has also been shown to have a positive effect on cholesterol and lipid metabolism, which are critical factors in maintaining cardiovascular health. High levels of LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Several studies have shown that dihydroberberine can lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while increasing HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol) levels. Dihydroberberine achieves this by inhibiting an enzyme called acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), which is involved in fatty acid synthesis. By inhibiting ACC, dihydroberberine can reduce the production of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, leading to a healthier lipid profile.
Supporting Blood Vessel Health
In addition to its effects on glucose and lipid metabolism, dihydroberberine has also been shown to support blood vessel health. One study showed that dihydroberberine can reduce the thickness of the walls of blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of hypertension.(3) (see image below regarding the change in plaque size following treatment) This study showed that dihydroberberine reduced gut bacteria production of TMAO by 72%! TMAO is a compound produced by certain gut bacteria in response to specific foods and higher levels have been shown to accelerate atherosclerosis. (8)(9)
Reducing Glycation End Products
Glycation end products (AGEs) are harmful compounds that form when sugars react with proteins and fats in the body. AGEs have been implicated in several age-related diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Dihydroberberine has been shown to reduce the formation of AGEs by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for their formation, called aldose reductase.(4)
Eliminating Digestive Upset
One of the most common side effects of regular berberine is gastrointestinal distress, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. However, dihydroberberine has been shown to be much better tolerated, with fewer side effects. In fact, a randomized clinical trial found that dihydroberberine was "well-tolerated and safe" and did not cause any significant adverse effects.(5)
Increasing Plasma BHB Ketones
Dihydroberberine has been studied for its ability to help increase plasma BHB ketones in the blood.
BHB (Beta-hydroxybutyrate) is one of three naturally occurring ketone bodies that are produced by the liver during times of fasting or low carbohydrate intake. These ketones can be used as an alternative energy source when glucose levels are low.
Studies have shown that dihydroberberine increases plasma BHB concentrations 2-3-fold compared to baseline levels. This means dihydroberberine helps increase the amount of usable energy available from fat stores through the production of ketones. Furthermore, dihydroberberine can also improve cognitive performance and help offset the effects of brain fog.
Conclusions
In summary, our Dihydroberberine formula featuring GlucoVantage® offers an array of potential health benefits for individuals looking to promote glucose balance, lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. From reducing the risk of heart disease and promoting proper blood glucose regulation to combatting biological aging and eliminating digestive discomfort, dihydroberberine offers a safe, well-tolerated, and convenient nutritional therapy option that should not be overlooked.
