Struggling with PCOS? In this article, we unpack the surprising (possible) benefits of Berberine for PCOS symptoms.
Berberine is a buzzworthy supplement known for all sorts of health benefits, including its ability to reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar levels, and lower insulin resistance. It’s also considered a natural GLP-1 and can support weight loss efforts, thanks to its ability to mimic the GLP-1 hormone. With all of these perks, the supplement is also used in women’s health to help women manage PCOS symptoms.
What Is PCOS?
“PCOS is a hormonal and metabolic disorder that affects how a woman’s ovaries function,” says Dr. Sabrina Solt, NMD, naturopathic medical doctor and founder of Stem Cell Therapy Professionals. “It’s often characterized by irregular periods, insulin resistance, and elevated androgens (male hormones), which can lead to symptoms like weight gain, acne, and excess facial hair.”
According to Jennifer Nicole Bianchini, MS, RD, IFNCP, RYT, a functional Dietitian and Mind-Body Wellness Expert, PCOS is one of the most common endocrine disorders among women, but it’s also one of the most underdiagnosed. She explains that an estimated 4 to 10 percent of women of reproductive age have the condition, though many cases remain underdiagnosed since it has historically been under-recognized in the medical community. Dr. Nadia Musavvir, ND, says some also go underdiagnosed because “they don’t ‘look’ like they fit the classic presentation of symptoms” and therefore get dismissed because the proper evaluations aren’t done.
The Link Between Blood Sugar and PCOS
In addition to acne, facial hair, and other common PCOS symptoms, the condition can also impact blood sugar regulation. Typically, the body uses insulin to move sugar from the bloodstream into the cells for energy or storage, says Bianchini. But in those with PCOS, the process is less efficient. As a result, Bianchini says it can cause weight gain (especially around the belly), energy crashes, cravings, and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
How Berberine Can Support PCOS Symptoms
While there is no one-and-done cure for PCOS, there are ways to support hormone balance and address symptoms naturally. “Berberine is a plant-based compound that’s been gaining a lot of attention for its potential role in supporting women with PCOS, especially because of its effects on blood sugar balance, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation,” says Bianchini.
According to research, berberine can improve insulin sensitivity because it activates a pathway called AMPK (which Bianchini says is kind of like your body’s metabolic master switch). This can help regulate how the body uses and stores energy. “Berberine has been shown to help balance blood sugar and lower fasting insulin,” she explains. “Since most women with PCOS tend to experience insulin resistance, berberine can be very beneficial.”
FAQs
Should people with PCOS take berberine?
Those with PCOS can benefit from adding berberine supplements such as the HUM Nutrition Best of Berberine. “Berberine helps by targeting one of the root causes of PCOS: insulin resistance,” says Dr. Solt. “It improves insulin sensitivity, lowers fasting glucose, and can reduce circulating androgens,” she adds.
Does berberine help with hormonal imbalance?
Taking a berberine supplement can support hormone-balancing efforts, but not entirely on its own. According to Dr. Solt, when used alongside other lifestyle upgrades (such as an animal-based and low-inflammatory diet, strength training, and stress regulation), it can “significantly improve symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, and hormonal acne.” She notes that, for many women with PCOS, it’s a fantastic way to bridge the gap between pharmaceutical and lifestyle-based therapies.
The Takeaway on Berberine Benefits
Berberine is a supplement that can be used to support women with PCOS, thanks to its ability to target common symptoms of the endocrine disorder, including inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, and insulin sensitivity. While it’s not a cure—and needs to be paired with other lifestyle changes for best results—it can yield positive results and help women take some control over their PCOS symptoms.
