New Delhi
With weight-loss drugs like Ozempic making headlines, a natural supplement called berberine is being touted online as “nature’s Ozempic.” But does it really live up to the comparison? A bariatric surgeon explains how berberine works, what it can (and can’t) do for weight loss, and whether it’s worth considering.
Ozempic vs berberine: What’s the difference?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription medication that promotes weight loss by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar. Studies suggest it can lead to around 15% body weight loss, largely by reducing hunger and slowing digestion.
Berberine, on the other hand, is an over-the-counter plant-based supplement. Research shows it may support metabolism and blood sugar control, similar to metformin, but its impact on weight loss is far more modest often just a few pounds over several weeks.
“Berberine does not suppress appetite the way Ozempic does,” says bariatric surgeon Dr Ankit Potdar. “Calling it ‘nature’s Ozempic’ is misleading.”
What exactly is berberine?
Berberine is a bioactive compound found in plants like barberry and has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda to manage digestive and infectious conditions.
However, Dr Potdar points out that berberine is not FDA-approved for treating any medical condition, including obesity.
5 potential health benefits of berberine
Berberine’s main action is activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) an enzyme that helps regulate how the body uses and stores energy. This may offer several metabolic benefits:
1. Helps manage blood sugar
Berberine may improve insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to absorb glucose more effectively useful for people with insulin resistance or prediabetes.
2. May benefit women with PCOS
Some studies suggest berberine can help improve hormonal balance and body composition in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
3. Supports blood pressure control
It may slightly lower elevated blood pressure, particularly in people with obesity-related hypertension, though it should not replace prescribed medication.
4. Reduces inflammation
Chronic inflammation is common in obesity. Berberine’s anti-inflammatory properties may support overall metabolic health.
5. Improves gut health
Berberine may help balance the gut microbiome by promoting beneficial bacteria and limiting harmful ones, which can influence digestion and metabolism.
Can berberine help with weight loss?
Berberine isn’t approved specifically for weight loss, but emerging research suggests it may help indirectly by improving metabolic function.
It may aid weight management by:
That said, weight loss with berberine is typically slow and modest.
“You’re not going to see dramatic results,” says Dr Potdar. “At best, changes may become noticeable after 4 to 12 weeks.”
Why berberine isn’t the same as Ozempic
Ozempic works primarily by reducing appetite and cravings, leading to faster and more noticeable weight loss. Berberine supports metabolism but does not significantly affect hunger or satiety.
“Berberine can support metabolic health, but it doesn’t come close to Ozempic’s appetite-suppressing power,” the doctor explains.
How should berberine be taken?
If someone chooses to try berberine, Dr Potdar suggests:
However, he stresses that neither berberine nor Ozempic should be used without medical guidance, especially for people with existing health conditions.
Are there side effects?
Berberine is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience digestive issues, including:
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid berberine, and it may interact with certain medications, particularly those processed by the liver.
Berberine vs metformin: Which works better?
Both berberine and metformin can improve insulin sensitivity, but metformin has a longer track record and may lead to slightly greater weight loss.
“Metformin reduces glucose production in the liver, while berberine works more broadly through AMPK activation,” says Dr Potdar.
READ MORE: Cricket taught me to value human talent over caste and religion
The bottom line
Berberine may offer metabolic and blood sugar benefits, but it is not a natural alternative to Ozempic. Weight loss results are mild, gradual, and highly dependent on diet and exercise.
For sustainable weight management, supplements alone aren’t enough. As experts agree, lifestyle changes remain the foundation, no matter which route you choose.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement or medication.
.png)
