From the Guidelines
Premium Berberim + Chromium Picolinate is unlikely to deliver as advertised due to the lack of conclusive evidence supporting the benefits of chromium supplementation in people with diabetes or obesity. The effectiveness of berberine in blood sugar management, cholesterol reduction, and weight management has been shown in some studies, but the quality, dosage, and formulation of this specific product would determine its effectiveness [ 1 ]. Chromium picolinate may help with glucose metabolism, but its benefits have not been conclusively demonstrated, and other well-designed studies have failed to show any significant benefit from chromium supplementation on glycemic control in people with diabetes [ 1 ].
When considering supplements like Premium Berberim + Chromium Picolinate, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications, as berberine may interact with certain drugs including antibiotics, blood thinners, and diabetes medications. Typical berberine dosing ranges from 900-1500mg daily (divided into 2-3 doses), while chromium picolinate is typically taken at 200-1000mcg daily. However, the most critical factor in achieving best results is not the supplement itself, but rather healthy lifestyle practices like proper diet and regular exercise, which should not be replaced by supplements [ 1 ].
Key considerations for individuals with diabetes or obesity include:
- Reduced energy intake and modest weight loss to improve insulin resistance and glycemia [ 1 ]
- Structured programs that emphasize lifestyle changes, including education, reduced fat and energy intake, regular physical activity, and regular participant contact [ 1 ]
- Exercise and behavior modification as adjuncts to other weight loss strategies [ 1 ]
- A daily intake of 1,000 –1,500 mg of calcium, especially in older subjects with diabetes, to reduce osteoporosis [ 1 ]
From the Research
Efficacy of Premium Berberim + Chromium Picolinate
- The combination of berberine and chromium picolinate has been shown to have a beneficial effect on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) 2, 3, 4.
- Berberine has been demonstrated to have a glucose-lowering effect, which is related to the baseline fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of patients 5, 6.
- Chromium picolinate supplementation has been shown to reduce insulin resistance and help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes 2, 3, 4.
Mechanism of Action
- Berberine inhibits the voltage-gated K+ channels of pancreatic β-cell membrane and promotes insulin secretion without causing hypoglycemia 5.
- Chromium picolinate enhances the metabolic action of insulin and lowers some of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease, particularly in overweight individuals 2, 3.
Safety and Efficacy
- Berberine has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of T2DM, with no significant increase in the incidence of total adverse events and hypoglycemia 5, 6.
- Chromium picolinate supplementation has been found to be safe and well-tolerated, with no significant adverse effects reported 2, 3, 4.
Clinical Studies
- A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that berberine significantly reduced FPG, HbA1c, and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (2hPG) in patients with T2DM 5, 6.
- A review of clinical studies on chromium picolinate supplementation in diabetes mellitus found that virtually all trials demonstrated beneficial effects on glycemic control and lipid metabolism 4.