Dihydroberberine (Enhancing)
What is Dihydroberberine?
Dihydroberberine is a derivative of berberine, a compound found in several plants used in traditional medicine. Berberine has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits, particularly its effects on blood sugar regulation, cholesterol levels, and weight management.
Dihydroberberine is considered a more bioavailable form of berberine, meaning it may be more easily absorbed and utilized by the body. It's believed to have similar effects to berberine but in smaller doses due to its increased bioavailability.
Uses & Effectiveness
1. Blood Sugar Regulation:
Both berberine and dihydroberberine have been studied for their ability to lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance.
2. Cholesterol and Lipid Levels:
They may help reduce bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, contributing to improved cardiovascular health.
3. Weight Management:
Berberine has been investigated for its potential in aiding weight loss and managing obesity-related conditions. Dihydroberberine's increased bioavailability might offer similar benefits.
4. High Blood Pressure Control:
Taking 0.9 grams of berberine by mouth daily along with the blood pressure-lowering drug amlodipine reduces blood pressure better than taking amlodipine alone in people with high blood pressure.
5. 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.
6. 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.