Berberine is a naturally occurring alkaloid and a primary constituent of several plants including barberry, goldenseal, and phellodendron. Recent studies indicate that berberine is a helpful supplement for maintaining cardiometabolic health. Berberine has been shown to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism in vitro and in vivo.
In vivo and in vitro experiments have also shown blood pressure support and vasorelaxatory effects of berberine. The vascular sites for this activity of berberine are not completely clear. It seems that berberine acts on both the endothelium and the underlying vascular smooth muscle to induce vasorelaxation via multiple cellular mechanisms. Berberine’s history of usage in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine dating back approximately 3,000 years has shown to help maintain a healthy microbial balance.
Polyphenols, part of a broad class of bioflavonoids, are commonly found in grape seeds. One type, known as proanthocyanidins is highly regarded for their strong antioxidant properties, and for their functions in supporting the capillaries. Proanthocyanidins appear to be especially effective in neutralizing highly reactive hydroxyl and singlet oxygen radicals. Both of these reactive oxygen species are involved in physiological processes.
Alpha lipoic acid is a nutritional coenzyme that is involved in the energy metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, has physiological functions in blood glucose clearance, and is able to scavenge a number of free radicals. This important coenzyme appears to be necessary for the normal transport of blood glucose into the cell. In addition, alpha lipoic acid has been shown to support AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a major regulator of cellular energy metabolism.
