In ancient China, Berberine was historically used to treat intestinal parasites and other illnesses such as diabetes. Berberine possesses antiprotozoal properties, enabling it to eliminate or hinder the development of protozoa. Berberine can be sourced from herbs like goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, philodendron, and tree turmeric.
Over the past few years, several studies, such as this 2012 Trusted Source, have indicated that people with type 2 diabetes tend to have reduced levels of a specific type of bacteria responsible for producing a short-chain fatty acid known as butyrate. Dr. Goodarzi noted that previous research has often highlighted the role of butyrate-producing bacteria in enhancing insulin sensitivity and guarding against diabetes, and our study focused on investigating these bacteria in particular.
The study revealed that although the majority of butyrate-producing bacteria were linked to improved insulin sensitivity, some were correlated with insulin resistance.
"If the modulation of the gut microbiome becomes an approach for preventing or treating diabetes, careful selection of the bacteria to be modulated is essential."
THE FINDINGS
Researchers found that Coprococcus and similar bacteria are beneficial for insulin sensitivity. However, Flavonifractor, even though it produces butyrate, is linked to insulin resistance. The study identified ten bacteria correlated with a lower rate of abnormal blood sugar fluctuations and two bacteria that had negative impacts on blood sugar levels.
“These results suggest that increasing Coprococcus and related bacteria or decreasing Flavonifractor may improve insulin sensitivity and prevent diabetes,”
Various types of Lactobacillus can be found in numerous fermented foods, including specific dairy items like yogurt. When mice were fed a diet containing R. ilealis, they exhibited a decrease in glucose tolerance and insulin production, indicating a diabetes-like state. Notably, while R. ilealis had no impact on adiposity, L. gasseri and L. johnsonii contributed to its reduction.
Consistent with the previous findings in the research, L. gasseri and L. johnsonii enhanced glucose tolerance in mice consuming a Western diet. Furthermore, demonstrating potential therapeutic advantages, L. gasseri ameliorated the existing glucose tolerance in these mice.
Comments