Best Berberine Supplement 2023 Reviews: Top 5 Brands

Berberine, a powerful natural compound found in plants, may improve cardiovascular health, regulate blood sugar levels, and support weight loss.

Selecting the best berberine supplement that suits your needs can be a challenge. Therefore, after analyzing the top berberine supplements in the market, we have curated a list of the best berberine brands, which we present in this article.

Within our list of options, you will find not only the best quality berberine supplements but also those recognized for their specific benefits, such as the best berberine supplement for weight loss support. We invite you to read along to learn how berberine works and the goals it can help you achieve.

Best berberine supplement in 2023: shortlist

• Vitality Pro — top rated berberine supplement
• Thrivous — best berberine supplement for aging support
• Utzy Naturals — best berberine for weight loss
• ProHealth — most bioavailable berberine supplement
• Botanic Choice — best berberine supplement for blood sugar control

How to choose the best berberine supplement?

Choosing the best berberine supplement requires careful consideration. Here are the five criteria you should take into account.

Ingredient quality	Natural, no unnecessary additives
Brand reputation	Trusted, transparent company
Dosage	Aligns with scientific research
Third-party testing	Independent lab-verified
Bioavailability	High absorption

• Ingredient quality. Ensure the supplement contains high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid products with fillers, artificial colors, or unnecessary additives.
• Brand reputation. Since reputable brands are generally more likely to offer the safest and most effective berberine supplements available, it is worth looking into a company's background, reading independent customer reviews, and considering their transparency regarding ingredient sourcing and manufacturing processes.
• Dosage. The best berberine supplement should provide an effective dosage in alignment with scientific research. Excessively high or low doses can be ineffective or pose toxicity risks.
• Third-party testing. Look for third party tested berberine supplements that go through independent labs before they are released to the market. This ensures the product meets quality standards and does not contain harmful contaminants.
• Bioavailability. Consider choosing a form with enhanced bioavailability for better absorption and effectiveness.

Berberine best brands in 2023: an overview

In this part we overview our hand-picked berberine supplements that we think cater for the widest range of needs. Deep diving into each brand, we take into consideration five criteria — ingredient and manufacturing quality, brand reputation, dosage, third-party testing, and bioavailability enhancements, we analyze and summarize the top five best berberine brands.

1. Vitality Pro — top rated berberine supplement

Try Vitality Pro Berberine now

We kick our list off with the top rated berberine supplement by Vitality Pro, made with the purest berberine sourced from the roots of the Berberis tree. It may help to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol.

To enhance the bioavailability of Berberine, the supplement includes Milk Thistle, a herb known for its ability to prevent the P-glycoprotein transporter that limits Berberine absorption.

A single bottle of Advanced Berberine contains 120 capsules. Each capsule includes 500mg of Berberine HCl and 125mg of Milk Thistle. For optimal results, the manufacturer recommends taking 1 capsule 2-3 times daily with water, which equates to a dosage of 500mg to 1500mg of Berberine HCl.

The product contains no GMOs, artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, or allergens.

All Vitality Pro products, including this third party tested berberine, are manufactured in accordance with GMP standards.

Advanced Berine is priced at $44.00, with a subscription option available for a 5% discount.

2. Thrivous — best berberine supplement for aging support

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Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous is an advanced supplement that may enhance metabolic, cellular, and genetic function.

Thrivous includes 500 mg of berberine HCL in one capsule, which is a commonly used starting dose to begin your berberine supplementation journey with. The company recommends starting with 1 capsule and gradually increasing it up to eight servings per day.

Thrivous is the only brand on our list to complement berberine with other active ingredients. Milk thistle, together with berberine, work synergistically, leading to better improvement in glucose and lipid regulation in your body.

The blueberry extract is a powerful antioxidant, and the coenzyme Q10 is responsible for healthy cell functions.

While Thrivous provides no bioavailability solution, the combination with milk thistle may be responsible for better outcomes in scientific studies of berberine.

This third party tested berberine supplement by Thrivous is manufactured in FDA-approved facilities, following cGMP guidelines.

The supplement contains 30 daily servings and costs $39.80.

3. Utzy Naturals — best berberine for weight loss

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Berbercol by Utzy Naturals, a formula crafted to naturally balance blood sugar levels, stands out as the best berberine for weight loss among those supplement options featured in our list. Specifically designed to balance both HDL and LDL cholesterol, it may also promote healthy cardiovascular function.

Each bottle contains a blend of Bergamonte® and Himaberb®, clinically shown to maintain cholesterol within the normal range. As a secondary benefit, these herbal ingredients may stabilize blood sugar levels and enhance insulin sensitivity, further supporting weight management and normal metabolism.

The serving size is 60 capsules per bottle, with the provider’s suggested dosage being 2 capsules daily.

All Utzy products, including Berbercol, are third-party tested in accordance with GMP standards and are ISO quality certified, ensuring the highest standards of purity and effectiveness.

Berbercol is priced at $51.50, with free shipping within the USA. Customers can also avail a 15% discount when purchasing 3 bottles.

4. ProHealth — most bioavailable berberine supplement

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Berberine Pro by ProHealth Longevity is a natural supplement designed to support healthy aging, heart health, and blood sugar management. The product is formulated to combat aging AMPK activation, improve body composition, enhance heart health, and aid in blood sugar management.

With Bioperine, which may help increase absorption, among its primary ingredients, ProHealth’s Berberine Pro stands out as potentially the most bioavailable berberine supplement. The formula also includes lipoic acid, which has been shown to support blood sugar levels.

Each bottle contains 60 capsules, with the provider’s suggested daily dosage of 1 capsule.

According to reviews, many users have reported weight loss benefits due to improved metabolism and reduced cravings.

ProHealth Longevity ensures the quality of its products by conducting third-party lab testing and adhering to GMP standards and FDA-registered manufacturing processes.

The product is available for $29.95, with free shipping on orders over $30 in the U.S. The brand also offers a 75-day money-back guarantee, emphasizing its commitment to customer satisfaction.

5. Botanic Choice – best berberine supplement for blood sugar control

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If you are looking for the best berberine supplement for blood sugar, Botanic Choice's offering is a strong contender. Their berberine supplement is purposefully formulated to support blood sugar and cholesterol levels within a normal range.

Each bottle contains 60 vegetarian capsules, with each capsule potentially delivering 500 mg of Berberine HCI Dihydrate derived from the Berberis aristata root.

The recommended dosage by the provider is 1 vegetable capsule per day.

The product is gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegetarian. All Botanic Choice products undergo rigorous quality checks to ensure their efficacy and safety.

Botanic Choice's Berberine supplement is priced at $24.99, down from its regular price of $30.00.

5 top-rated berberine supplement brands compared

Brand	Price per serving*	Number of servings	Price per bottle	Berberine amount per serving	Berberine form	Number of ingredients
Thrivous	$1.32	30	$39.80	500 mg	HCL	4
Vitality Pro	$0.37	120	$44.00	500 mg	HCL	5
Utzy Naturals	$1.72	30	$51.50	600 mg	HCL	2
ProHealth	$0.45	60	$29.95	600 mg	HCL	5
Botanic Choice	$0.83	30	$24.99	500 mg	HCL	1

*— better pricing may be available through subscription.

What is berberine?

Berberine, a bioactive compound found in various plants, including the Berberis family, exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Having a history deeply rooted in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, berberine has recently gained recognition for its potential health benefits.

Promisingly, berberine has demonstrated potential in regulating blood sugar levels and potentially lowering LDL cholesterol, thus supporting heart health. Not only that, berberine has been explored for its role in weight management, and while research is ongoing, the use of berberine for weight loss has been gaining popularity.

How does berberine work?

Berberine operates by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), commonly referred to as the 'metabolic master switch.' This enzyme plays a pivotal role in the regulation of metabolism. Berberine's activation of AMPK results in enhanced insulin sensitivity, reduced hepatic glucose production, and decreased lipid levels.

While modern science increasingly recognizes its potential benefits, it is vital to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, as its mechanisms of action can vary depending on the specific health condition.

Berberine supplements for weight loss, can it help?

Berberine has become a topic of interest for its possible role in managing weight, though it should not be considered a magic solution. By activating the enzyme AMPK, the best berberine for weight loss supplements have the potential to enhance insulin sensitivity, boost fat breakdown, and inhibit fat storage, thereby aiding in weight management efforts.

With that said, be mindful that no supplement, including the best berberine for weight loss, can replace a balanced diet and regular exercise when it comes to weight management. Berberine should complement, not replace, a healthy lifestyle.

If you have found your best berberine supplement for weight loss and intend to start taking it, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian, as lifestyle changes remain fundamental for weight control.

Best form of berberine supplements

When included in supplements, Berberine is typically available in two forms: Berberine HCL and dihydroberberine.

Berberine HCL is the conventional form, and there is growing evidence of its potential benefits in managing metabolic health. However, its bioavailability is relatively low, which limits its efficacy.

Dihydroberberine is another form of berberine commonly found in supplements. Although the mechanisms are not fully understood yet, emerging evidence suggests that this form may have superior bioavailability, potentially making it the most effective form of berberine.

With both Berberine HCL and dihydroberberine available on the market, the best form of berberine may depend on factors such as your specific health goals, dosage preferences, and how your body responds to each form. That said, current studies indicate that dihydroberberine may be the most effective form of berberine.

How berberine supplements can help with various health concerns

While further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of berberine supplements, berberine generally shows promise in studies addressing these concerns.

• Type 2 diabetes and high blood sugar levels. Berberine may help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce insulin resistance, and lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). By having an effect on hormones and metabolic dysfunction, berberine may alleviate symptoms associated with PCOS.
• Weight management. Some studies suggest that berberine may help with weight loss efforts by affecting metabolism and reducing fat storage.
• High cholesterol. Berberine's lipid-lowering effects can contribute to a healthier cholesterol profile.

In contrast to the specific cases outlined above, the best berberine supplements available on the market are not intended to treat diseases. However, they can support your health by delivering benefits for blood sugar control, cholesterol, and weight management. People with diabetes, PCOS, or other conditions should consult a healthcare provider for a tailored approach to managing their conditions, which may include considering dietary supplements like berberine.

Can berberine replace metformin?

No. While berberine has shown promise in managing type 2 diabetes and has been compared to metformin, a common diabetes medication, in some studies, berberine is best viewed as a potential adjunctive supplement, rather than a replacement for traditional diabetes medications.

Both berberine and metformin work by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels. However, while berberine's effects are promising, it is not considered a replacement for metformin. Although some research suggests it could be as effective as metformin, more extensive and rigorous studies are needed to confirm these results.

Moreover, berberine's bioavailability and potential interactions with other medications complicate its use.

It's critical for individuals with diabetes to consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication regimen, including substituting or supplementing with berberine.

When is the best time to take berberine supplements?

Berberine supplements are typically recommended to be taken with a meal, or immediately before, to improve its absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or upset stomach. This is because food stimulates bile production, which can enhance berberine's bioavailability.

Some studies have suggested splitting the daily dose into 2-3 smaller doses, rather than taking it all at once, to maintain steady levels in the body and maximize efficacy. If berberine is being used for blood sugar regulation, taking it with meals containing carbohydrates can be particularly beneficial.

However, the timing can also depend on the specific health concern being addressed and individual tolerability. It's always best to follow the advice of a healthcare professional.

What are the side effects of berberine and who should avoid it?

While berberine has many potential benefits, it also carries certain risks and side effects.

Common side effects can include digestive discomfort, such as constipation, diarrhea, or stomach cramps. More seriously, berberine can interact with medications, including cyclosporine, certain antibiotics, and anticoagulants like warfarin, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of adverse effects.

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid berberine altogether. These include pregnant and breastfeeding women, as berberine could potentially harm the fetus or nursing infant. Individuals with liver disease should also be cautious, as berberine is processed in the liver and could exacerbate existing conditions.

Additionally, people with low blood pressure should avoid berberine, as it could further lower their readings. As with any supplement, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting berberine.

How we compiled our list of the best berberine supplements in 2023

When putting together the best berberine supplement 2023 list, we carefully considered these criteria:

• Ingredient quality. A berberine supplement crafted from high-quality ingredients is more likely to provide the expected benefits of berberine. Therefore, selecting supplements from reputable, best berberine brands that prioritize quality and subject their products to testing can significantly enhance product safety.
• Dosage. Considering that studies use berberine doses with pharmacological effects starting from 400 mg per day, it is crucial to choose those top berberine supplements that offer effective dosages without posing the risk of adverse effects.
• Third-party testing. Best quality berberine supplements and third-party testing go hand in hand. In essence, third-party testing verifies the accuracy of the ingredient list and ensures the absence of harmful contaminants, so that you receive precisely what is stated on the label.
• Bioavailability. Most bioavailable berberine supplements should be a key consideration for those interested in berberine supplementation. Since berberine naturally has low bioavailability, specific formulations, such as those containing the acclaimed best form of berberine known as dihydroberberine, can potentially enhance its bioavailability, in turn, ensuring that a greater amount of this compound is absorbed.

What are berberine alternatives?

Several natural supplements may serve as alternatives to berberine for promoting health, managing diabetes, and supporting weight management:

• Cinnamon. It has been linked to improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control.
• Fish oil. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it promotes heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Folic acid. Important for cell growth and metabolism, it may also support heart health.
• Coenzyme Q10. This antioxidant may help regulate blood sugar levels and boost heart health.
• Vitamin D. Known for its role in bone health, it's also vital for immune function.
• Green tea extract. It's often used for weight management due to its potential metabolism-boosting effects.

What is the best berberine supplement: conclusion

As ongoing research continues to delve deeper into the mechanisms behind berberine's effects, its supplements are surging in popularity. The appeal of the best berberine supplements lies in their potential to help regulate blood sugar, manage cholesterol levels, and assist with weight loss efforts.

When in search of the best berberine supplement, give preference to third party tested berberine supplements, as this elevates the quality and reliability of the product. Among the choices in our list, you can choose from the top rated berberine supplements — those catering to general preferences and those featured for specific concerns, such as berberine for weight loss.

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