Barberries are tart, red fruits that are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. Many restaurant dishes from these regions utilize these berries to give their food an additional lemon-like sour taste. However, this ingredient also has many health benefits, a few of which are below.

How Eating Barberries Can Make You Healthier

1. Manage Diabetes

Barberries contain berberine, which is an alkaloid that can help diabetics control their condition. The chemicals in barberries help your body handle insulin better, which can lower your blood sugar levels. Some doctors say that regularly ingesting berberine can be as effective in regulating blood sugar as the diabetes drug metformin. In addition, it can also regulate cholesterol, while metformin does not.

2. Promote Digestive Health

The practice of using barberries to treat digestive issues goes back hundreds of years. Berberine inhibits receptors in your stomach, slowing the body’s processing of excrement. It’s especially effective in treating diarrhea from E. coli, with patients reporting improved symptoms within 24 hours. Also, berberine can treat people with irritable bowel syndrome and reduce the frequency of their symptoms.

3. Improve Dental Health

Barberries can also prevent dental inflammation. This can help treat several issues, such as gingivitis and plaque, reducing your risk of cavities and other issues. Rubbing a gel containing berberine on your gums can relieve pain, redness, and canker sores, providing a natural way to reduce discomfort.

4. Reduce Symptoms of PCOS

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects about 10% of women of childbearing age. Berberine, one of the compounds in barberries, reduces many symptoms of the health problem, including high blood sugar, cholesterol, and testosterone levels. Additionally, PCOS makes it more difficult to get pregnant, and taking berberine can help women overcome this challenge.

If you want to enjoy barberries with your meal, visit Sufi’s Kitchen in Atlanta, GA. This Persian restaurant serves many delicious dishes that incorporate the fruit, providing unmatched taste and quality. They’re located between Buckhead and Midtown, and the restaurant offers a dining experience you’ll remember. Visit them online to view the menu. Call (404) 888-9699 to make a reservation.