Can I take Berberine with Chromium?

Understanding the interactions, benefits, and safety of combining these two powerful supplements.

Berberine
+
Chromium

Short answer

We found no direct interaction between Berberine and Chromium in the sources below, but they share a caution.

Both have a note about diabetes medicines (see each one below).

Both may lower blood sugar, so the effects could add up, especially with diabetes medicine.

Berberine

What it is: A compound from plants such as barberry and goldenseal, used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

What the research says: It may lower cholesterol, triglycerides and blood sugar, but the effect may be small and lifestyle changes are still needed.

Cautions

  • Mild side effects can include appetite loss, upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation and rash.
  • Not for pregnancy or breastfeeding: it may harm newborns.

Medicines to check

  • Immune-suppressing drugs such as tacrolimus or cyclosporin: berberine may raise their levels
  • Some diabetes drugs (sulfonylureas)
  • Many prescription drugs processed by the liver: berberine may make them less effective
  • Bosutinib (a cancer drug)

In Holitro: Berberine 500mg (500 mg per capsule)

Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, About Herbs: Berberine (updated June 2023)

Chromium

What it is: A mineral found in many foods that may help the body use carbohydrates, fats and protein.

What the research says: Studies on blood sugar are mixed. The American Diabetes Association doesn't recommend it because it has no clear benefit.

Cautions

  • No harm has been shown, but research is limited. People with kidney or liver disease should be careful with high amounts.

Medicines to check

  • Insulin, metformin and other diabetes medicines: chromium may push blood sugar too low
  • Levothyroxine (thyroid medicine): chromium may reduce how much is absorbed

In Holitro: Chromium (1000 mcg per capsule)

Source: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Chromium: Fact Sheet for Consumers (updated March 2021)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take medication.

Check your stack β€” free

Educational information only, not medical advice. This reflects general ingredient overlap, not a personalized safety review. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining supplements, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or nursing, or manage a health condition. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

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