May protect against metabolic syndrome

Eating barberries may aid in the prevention of metabolic syndrome, a group of risk factors that increase your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Barberries, in particular, may help to prevent obesity and excessive blood sugar, cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels, all of which are risk factors for this syndrome. One 8-week trial of 46 types 2 diabetes patients revealed that drinking 7 ounces (200 mL) of barberry juice per day significantly decreased blood pressure, triglyceride, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels when compared to a placebo. In addition to lowering metabolic syndrome risk factors, barberries may help reduce oxidative stress in those who already have the disorder.

The underlying cell damage caused by reactive chemicals known as free radicals causes oxidative stress. Too much oxidative stress, combined with insufficient antioxidants to combat it, can lead to heart disease and other health problems. A 6-week study of 106 persons with metabolic syndrome found that eating 600 mg of dried barberry per day reduced oxidative stress substantially more than a placebo. According to these findings, consuming the berries may help lessen your chances of acquiring metabolic syndrome risk factors as well as the oxidative stress linked with it. Nonetheless, additional research is required.