Testing Metformin + Berberine Together

38334 Views 80 Replies 16 Participants Last post by fjk2013, Jul 12, 2018

Cricket

Discussion Starter · Jul 2, 2017

Plant Liquid Paint Fluid Drink

I know we have discussed Berberine as a replacement for Metformin (for some people) but I am curious if any of y'all have tried them together?

First let me explain why I am asking. As most of you know, I live a Keto lifestyle and take Metformin to control my diabetes. My diabetes is 99% under control. My last A1C was 6.2. The one issue that continue to perplex me, are my morning numbers. I have tried just about everything to control the dawn phenomenon, with very little success. Additionally, my numbers in the morning will continue to climb until I give in and eat or drink my version of bullet proof coffee.

Yes, I realize I could give in and go on insulin, but I would rather not.

I have been doing some research on Berberine and found some articles that taking Berberdine AND Metformin may improve control.

When taken together, Metformin and berberine seem to work synergistically for even better glucose control. Surprising supplements: Five effective nutrients you've never heard of | Precision Nutrition

I am going to start testing results with taking both and see if it makes any difference in my morning numbers.

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #41 · Sep 25, 2017

alamogirl said:
Hi Cricket, how many mgs are you taking? I can't really tell from the picture.

I think I'm going to try this.

Thanks.

Of the Berberine? I take around 1,500 a day, divided into 3 dosages.

Keep in mind that my goal is not to stay on both. After my next doctor's appointment, I want to test what happens if I give up Metformin all together and just stick with Berberine. I do recommend doing some research to find a quality brand. (I have been happy with Solaray, but their may be better options out there.)

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alamogirl

· #42 · Sep 25, 2017

Thank you for your response. Yes, I meant the Berberine. Well, I hope you can get off the Metformin too

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docroger

· #43 · Oct 1, 2017

Hi Cricket....
How much is BS reading now???
Berberine is good to increase insulin sensitivity...

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #44 · Oct 1, 2017

Although my fasting numbers are still over 100, my numbers the rest of the time are almost always under 100. This was from a short time ago, a few hours after eating.

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beaver425

· #45 · Oct 1, 2017

Hi Cricket,

I was just wondering ... How long did it take for you to see results? I've been taking Berberine and Milk Thistle for about a week and doing some Apple Cider Vinegar when I remember.

Thanks!

Cricket

Discussion Starter · #46 · Oct 1, 2017

beaver425 said:
Hi Cricket,

I was just wondering ... How long did it take for you to see results? I've been taking Berberine and Milk Thistle for about a week and doing some Apple Cider Vinegar when I remember.

Thanks!

I noticed results very rapidly, but I live a KETO lifestyle.

What is an average day of what you are eating? How many carbs?

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beaver425

· #47 · Oct 3, 2017

Cricket said:
I noticed results very rapidly, but I live a KETO lifestyle.

What is an average day of what you are eating? How many carbs?

I've essentially eliminated processed carbs and do my best to keep carb count below 30 grams per day. Obviously, some days are better than others.

On a bright note ... the ACV is becoming more palatable!

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beaver425

· #48 · Oct 22, 2017

Cricket, how much Milk Thistle are you taking?

I'm starting on a different brand today and it is only 150 mg per pill. I'm also starting a 500 mg Berberine 3 x daily (was taking 400 mg 3 x daily) plus I've been taking 1 tbsp. ACV nightly. My metformin is stalled at 500 mg per day since 750 mg gave me the nightly diarrhea. Surprisingly, my nurse practitioner is okay with the reduced metformin.

Anyway, my FBG has been in the 120s for the most part with a couple of spikes here and there. (this morning was 145) My PP at night has been better as well. Last night was only 105! I've never seen a number that good.

Still trying to fine tune this process, so any help you can give is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #49 · Oct 23, 2017

For me, I take the Solaray Milk Thistle One Daily.

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beaver425

· #50 · Oct 23, 2017

Cricket said:
For me, I take the Solaray Milk Thistle One Daily.

Thanks, Cricket! Now I have some more direction! BTW, starting to see improvement in my numbers. Hoping to make the 5% Club by December. :smile2:

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #51 · Oct 23, 2017

beaver425 said:
Thanks, Cricket! Now I have some more direction! BTW, starting to see improvement in my numbers. Hoping to make the 5% Club by December. :smile2:

I am so excited for you!

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alamogirl

· #52 · Oct 31, 2017

I finally bought some Berberine and started taking it this week. Will keep y'all posted.

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Quinn

· #53 · Nov 11, 2017

Acv

Hi all,
Very interesting information, I'm going on Amazon to get the berberine, and milk thistle already on 2 table spoons of AVC in the evening. Little tip... I take with a little cube of hard cheese (cheddar). this make it much easier on the stomach!
I'm on a lot of metformin 2000mg (2x500mg twice a day) should I think of lowering or even stopping before testing I'm currently LCHF and thinking of progressing to Keto

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #54 · Nov 11, 2017

Quinn said:
Hi all,
Very interesting information, I'm going on Amazon to get the berberine, and milk thistle already on 2 table spoons of AVC in the evening. Little tip... I take with a little cube of hard cheese (cheddar). this make it much easier on the stomach!
I'm on a lot of metformin 2000mg (2x500mg twice a day) should I think of lowering or even stopping before testing I'm currently LCHF and thinking of progressing to Keto

I mix my AVC with a full glass of water.

I have transitioned to strict KETO and it has made life so much easier for me.

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Quinn

· #55 · Nov 11, 2017

Hi Cricket, following your progress with interest, I would very much like to come off meds. If something works better than metformin, then it (metformin) can be dumped. I have read elsewhere, that berberine should be cycled 8 weeks on 2-4 weeks off and repeat if needed, this suggests to me that it might help repair liver/pancreas. Your thoughts? Have you read this? Are you cycling?

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #56 · Nov 11, 2017

For me, I do not cycle off the berberine, but I do cycle between NAC (N-acetyl Cysteine) and Milk Thistle. My last liver numbers were perfect even though prior to that (before the supplements) I had issues with my liver numbers.

After my next doctor's appointment, my plan is to start tapering off of Metformin completely. Only time will tell if I am successful with that.

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #57 · Nov 11, 2017

Added Note As a Reminder:

I am not a doctor. I don't even play one on the internet. Although I share what has worked for me, that does not mean that it is best for you.

When I share what I do, it should never be considered advise.

Quinn

· #58 · Nov 11, 2017

Cricket said:
Added Note As a Reminder:

I am not a doctor. I don't even play one on the internet. Although I share what has worked for me, that does not mean that it is best for you.

When I share what I do, it should never be considered advise.

Fully understood!
The Doctors and the dietician I've seen just seems to toe the "party" line. "It's incurable, get used to it, we can control it with meds. but do not expect to get any better" When I mentioned LCHF my dietician discharged me! "you cannot do without carbs, fat is bad for you!!!"

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Cricket

Discussion Starter · #59 · Nov 11, 2017

In my humble opinion, although a few doctors are truly starting to understand the benefits of LCHF/KETO, the medical field has a long way to go. Far too many stick to the old school nutritional advice that has led to so many problems for many diabetics.

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Quinn

· #60 · Nov 12, 2017

Cricket said:
In my humble opinion, although a few doctors are truly starting to understand the benefits of LCHF/KETO, the medical field has a long way to go. Far too many stick to the old school nutritional advice that has led to so many problems for many diabetics.

You are not alone in that, they are certainly behind the times in research, and over keen to prescribe meds. But here in the UK Doctors get just 4 hours formal dietary training in total (so said one of my local GP's) and that in the outdated fat is bad, carbs are good, diabetes should not eat sugary foods mould.

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