Berberine For PCOS- Symptoms, Treatment And Dosages
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a very common hormonal disorder that usually affects women of reproductive age. The condition is characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, and cysts on the ovaries. There is no cure for PCOS, but there are several treatments available to manage the symptoms. One of the supplements that has gained popularity in recent years is berberine. In this blog post, we will discuss the use of berberine supplements for PCOS and how it can improve PCOS symptoms with reference to some studies.
What is Berberine?
Berberine is a natural compound found in many plants that includes barberry, goldenseal, and Oregon grape. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat various ailments, including diabetes, infections, and gastrointestinal issues. Berberine is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Berberine for PCOS
Several studies have shown that berberine may be beneficial for women with PCOS. It is believed to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and lower androgen levels. These effects may help to improve PCOS symptoms, such as irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.
Improving Insulin Sensitivity: Insulin resistance is a common symptoms for women with PCOS. It occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, which leads to high blood sugar levels. Berberine has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
A randomized controlled trial of 89 women with PCOS found that taking 500 mg of berberine three times a day for 3 months improved insulin sensitivity, as measured by the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) score. The study also found improvements in menstrual regularity and androgen levels
(1) Reducing Inflammation: Inflammation is another issue that is common in women with PCOS. Berberine has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce inflammation in the body. A randomized controlled trial of 116 women with PCOS found that taking 500 mg of berberine three times a day for 3 months reduced levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation.
(2) Lowering Androgen Levels: Androgens (male hormones) are also present in women in smaller amounts. Women with PCOS often have higher levels of androgens, which can cause acne, excess hair growth, and other symptoms. Berberine has been shown to lower androgen levels in women with PCOS. A randomized controlled trial of 102 women with PCOS found that taking 500 mg of berberine twice a day for 3 months reduced levels of testosterone, a type of androgen.
(3) Dosage of Berberine: The optimal dosage of berberine for PCOS is not yet established. However, most studies have used doses ranging from 500 mg to 1500 mg per day. It is suggested that one should start with a low dosage and gradually increase it as needed. It is also important to note that berberine may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, antidepressants, and medications for diabetes. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid berberine supplements.
Conclusion:
Berberine is a natural compound found in several plants that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Several studies have shown that it may be beneficial for women with PCOS by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and lowering androgen levels. The optimal dosage of berberine for PCOS is not yet established, but most studies have used doses ranging from 500 mg to 1500 mg
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