Yusupov Shares Insight with Clean Plates

The nutrition and wellness site Clean Plates featured insight from NYITCOM Assistant Professor Eleanor Yusupov, D.O., in an article about berberine. While the plant-based supplement has been generating buzz with the nickname

“Nature’s Ozempic,” Yusupov, a board-certified obesity medicine physician, explains that using berberine does not come without side effects. 

“Berberine can be harmful to newborns because of the possible buildup of bilirubin in the brain. Because of this, it should not be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to possible harm to the baby,” says Yusupov, who adds that the supplement can interact with certain medications, including cyclosporine. 

In addition, unlike prescription medications, supplements in the U.S. are not strictly regulated and can sometimes contain harmful impurities. Given this, Yusupov calls for additional high-quality studies to verify berberine’s safety and efficacy.