Brad Stanfield on Berberine
3 episodes · 5 references · 2023–2025
- Stanfield views berberine as having notable but small benefits for cholesterol reduction through multiple mechanisms including AMPK activation and PCSK9 blocking - Warns that AMPK activation suppresses protein synthesis, potentially hindering muscle growth - No evidence of personal consumption or specific dosing guidance discussed
Benefits
- Berberine reduces LDL cholesterol by decreasing gut absorption and upregulating liver LDL receptors - Activates AMPK enzyme, a cellular energy sensor that drives processes to restore energy balance - Blocks PCSK9 protein; meta-analyses show improved total and LDL cholesterol vs placebo, though the effect is small
Cautions
- AMPK activation conserves energy by dialing back protein synthesis, which is essential for muscle growth - May undermine hypertrophy goals for those prioritizing muscle building - Trade-off between cholesterol benefits and potential muscle growth impairment should be weighed individually
“Berberine acts in several different ways to help reduce LDL cholesterol. It reduces how much cholesterol from our food gets absorbed by the gut and it also has a dual impact on LDL receptors in the liver.”
Should You Take Berberine?
“One of the most important effects of berberine is to activate an enzyme called AMPK. AMPK acts as a cellular energy sensor and when it's flipped on, it drives a set of processes to restore the energy balance.”
Should You Take Berberine?
“Berberine works by also blocking the PCSK9 protein. For some people, it may offer small benefits to their blood cholesterol levels.”
Should You Take Cholesterol-Lowering Medications?
