Childhood-Eczema.jpg
26/Mar/2025

Eczema is a pesky skin condition, and what many don’t realize is that it often comes with a sneaky sidekick: Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that can make things a lot worse. For kids with eczema, an overgrowth of staph can lead to some pretty nasty flare-ups, so it’s important to keep it in check. New research shows that probiotics and berberine can help balance the skin’s microbiome and reduce harmful bacteria. By adding these natural remedies to your child’s treatment plan, you can help improve their skin health and reduce the severity of their eczema. Want to learn more about how to help your child? Book an appointment with a Naturopathic Doctor today.

Understanding the eczema-staph connection

Eczema and Staphylococcus aureus are both complex conditions. Understanding them is important to managing this long-term skin condition. Staph aureus, a bacteria we all carry, is often found on the skin of people with eczema. But in those with eczema, it’s more prevalent, and this overabundance can lead to flare-ups and exacerbate symptoms. It disrupts the skin’s natural defences, making it more prone to inflammation and irritation.

Science has our back on this one: studies have consistently linked more severe eczema with higher levels of staph. Armed with this insight, I’ve found that a thoughtful, personalized approach to skin care can help to keep staph at bay and eczema under control.

The common go-to for staph is antibiotics and topical treatments, but they can also throw our skin’s natural balance off-kilter, making things worse. It’s a delicate dance, managing the staph without compromising our skin’s strength. This is where a more comprehensive approach to eczema care comes in, one that takes into account the whole picture, from the bacteria to the environment.

How staph-aureus affects eczema in children

In children, Staphylococcus aureus’ effect on eczema is especially important. It not only makes the skin more inflamed, but it also makes it harder to treat. This bacterium is commonly found on the skin of individuals with eczema, and its presence can exacerbate symptoms, leading to more frequent and severe flare-ups. Children with eczema are especially vulnerable to these effects due to their developing immune systems and the delicate nature of their skin.

Regarding treatment, antibiotics are often the go-to, but they might not be the whole answer. You need to take care of your skin, too. That means sticking to a regular skin care routine, using gentle soaps, and making sure your skin is well-moisturized. Some research has suggested that probiotics might be able to help, too. By keeping your skin’s microbiome in balance, probiotics can help your skin fight off staph and keep it from getting out of control.

And then there’s berberine, a little gem found in certain herbs. It’s like a superhero that can put a stop to the staph’s mischief, making it a great sidekick to traditional treatments. When you use these natural wonders in your child’s eczema care, you’re not just treating the symptoms—you’re building a foundation for long-term skin health. It’s a comprehensive strategy, and it’s all about giving your child the very best.

Probiotics: A promising defence against staph

Probiotics, often linked to gut health, are now being recognized for their ability to fight staph infections. They offer a natural way to help the skin’s microbiome. Probiotics can help balance the skin’s ecosystem, just like they do for our digestive system. They can also reduce the presence of harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. This equilibrium is especially vital for those with eczema, as an unbalanced microbiome can trigger symptoms and flare-ups.

It’s fascinating—research has unveiled that probiotics can be a game-changer for kids with eczema. There’s a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, that discovered how children who took probiotic supplements saw a real drop in the severity of their eczema. And then there are topical probiotics that are getting a lot of buzz for how they can form a protective shield on the skin. They’re like knights in shining armour, warding off bad bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus. By teaming up with these friendly bacteria, the skin is better equipped to fight off infections and heal, which is a huge relief for kids dealing with eczema.

Probiotics are great on their own, but when you add other natural remedies like berberine, they are even stronger. Berberine, a little something found in certain herbs, is like a secret agent—it’s got antimicrobial properties that can really take on Staphylococcus aureus. So, by bringing probiotics and berberine together, we’re talking about a tag team that’s got eczema on the ropes. Talking to a Naturopathic Doctor can make sure these natural heroes are working safely and well, especially for our children.

Berberine: An herbal approach to managing eczema

Berberine, a herb with a rich history of antimicrobial use, is now in the spotlight as a natural ally in the fight against eczema and the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This ancient remedy, with roots in traditional medicine, is gaining modern recognition for its potential to support skin health. Its anti-inflammatory properties are especially good for people with eczema. It may help reduce the redness, itching, and discomfort that often happen when their skin gets worse.

But Berberine doesn’t stop there. It’s like a guardian for your skin’s defences, helping to fortify its natural barriers. This is especially important for young people with eczema. Their skin is often more sensitive and can let in unwanted guests like the Staph aureus bacteria, which can make eczema symptoms worse. By shoring up these defences, berberine can help create a healthier, more resilient skin environment.

Studies have revealed that berberine’s antimicrobial prowess is a powerful ally in the fight against Staph bacteria. It’s a great natural treatment for eczema. When used with traditional treatments, it gives you a complete skin care plan. By weaving berberine into our daily skin rituals, we’re not only boosting the effectiveness of our current routines but also nurturing our skin from within. It’s a beautiful blend of nature and science, and it’s a gift we can give our little ones—a more complete way to care for their eczema.

Integrating natural solutions with medical treatment

Integrating natural solutions like probiotics and berberine with conventional medical treatments can provide a comprehensive approach to managing eczema and improving quality of life. For many children, using these natural remedies with traditional treatments like topical steroids can lead to better and longer-lasting results. Topical steroids are a cornerstone of eczema treatment, helping to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. However, adding probiotics can make these treatments even more effective by helping the skin protect itself and promoting a healthy microbiome.

But here’s the thing: while it’s pretty clear that combining natural and medical treatments can be a game-changer, it’s super important to do this the right way, with a healthcare professional by your side. A naturopath can be a guiding light, offering personalized recommendations to make sure those natural solutions are both safe and effective. They’ll help keep an eye on how your child is responding to the combined treatments and make any tweaks to the plan as needed. Working with a naturopath, parents can feel good about the well-rounded and holistic approach they’re taking to help their child manage eczema.

Adding natural remedies like probiotics and berberine to an eczema care plan can be a big help for your child’s skin and overall health. It’s about weaving together the best of both worlds—traditional and natural—to help your child feel more at home in their skin and in their life.


belly-2354_1280-1200x800.jpg
30/May/2023

Berberine and Ozempic are two medicines that have gained popularity in recently. Berberine is a natural supplement, while Ozempic is a prescription drug. Both have been shown to lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, making them popular among people with diabetes and weight loss. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two medicines.

1. What is Berberine?

Berberine is a remarkable natural compound, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Extracted from the roots, rhizomes, and stem bark of plants like goldenseal, Oregon grape, and barberry, berberine’s vibrant yellow color and impressive therapeutic properties have made it a prized ingredient in ancient healing practices.
The mechanism of action for berberine is quite fascinating. It functions by activating an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which plays a critical role in regulating metabolism and maintaining cellular energy homeostasis. This activation leads to numerous health benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and enhanced lipid metabolism.
Recent scientific studies have confirmed berberine’s effectiveness in managing several conditions. One of its most notable applications is in treating type 2 diabetes, where it has exhibited remarkable potential in lowering blood sugar levels, comparable to the widely prescribed drug metformin. Additionally, berberine has demonstrated promising results in improving cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It has also displayed antimicrobial properties against various bacteria, fungi, and parasites, making it a valuable ally in combating infections.

2. What is Ozempic?

Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is a groundbreaking medication that has taken the world of diabetes management by storm. Developed by Novo Nordisk, Ozempic was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults (FDA, 2017). This innovative drug belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are designed to mimic the action of GLP-1, a naturally occurring hormone involved in regulating blood sugar levels.
The mechanism of action for Ozempic is truly fascinating. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it works by stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells when blood sugar levels are high, thus helping to lower glucose levels in the bloodstream. Moreover, it suppresses the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels, and slows down gastric emptying, resulting in a decrease in appetite and caloric intake.
Clinical trials have demonstrated Ozempic’s effectiveness in managing type 2 diabetes, showing significant reductions in HbA1c levels (a measure of long-term blood sugar control) and body weight. Additionally, it has been proven to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. With its promising results and innovative mechanism of action, Ozempic has emerged as a powerful tool in the ongoing battle against diabetes and its complications.

3. How does Berberine compare to Ozempic?

In terms of blood sugar regulation, berberine has been shown to lower blood glucose levels by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which helps improve insulin sensitivity and decrease insulin resistance. On the other hand, Ozempic mimics the action of GLP-1, stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells when blood sugar levels are high, suppressing glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying . Both compounds have demonstrated significant reductions in HbA1c levels, a measure of long-term blood sugar control, in patients with type 2 diabetes).
When it comes to weight loss, both berberine and Ozempic have shown promising results. Berberine’s activation of AMPK leads to enhanced lipid metabolism, contributing to weight loss (Turner et al., 2008). Ozempic’s effect on weight loss can be attributed to its ability to slow gastric emptying, resulting in reduced appetite and caloric intake. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with either compound.
While both berberine and Ozempic have proven effective in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss, their mechanisms of action differ, and they belong to different classes of compounds. Berberine is a natural compound with a broader range of applications, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Ozempic, as a synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonist, has been specifically developed for type 2 diabetes treatment and has demonstrated additional cardiovascular benefits in patients with established cardiovascular disease.

4. Can Berberine and Ozempic be taken together?

It is not advisable to take Berberine and Ozempic together without consulting a doctor. Both medicines can lower blood sugar levels, and taking them together can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If you are already taking Ozempic, it is crucial to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and follow your doctor’s advice on adjusting your medication.

5. Which one should you choose?

Generally, Berberine is a safer and more affordable option compared to Ozempic, especially for people with mild to moderate blood sugar problems. However, for people with severe diabetes or other health complications, Ozempic may be the better choice, as it is a more potent and targeted medication. Ultimately, the decision to use Berberine or Ozempic should be made in consultation with a physician or naturopathic doctor, who can assess your particular health needs and goals.
References:

Imanshahidi, M., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2016). Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Berberis vulgaris and its active constituent, berberine. Phytotherapy Research, 22(8), 999-1012.

Turner, N., Li, J. Y., Gosby, A., To, S. W. C., Cheng, Z., Miyoshi, H., … & Xu, A. (2008). Berberine and its more biologically available derivative, dihydroberberine, inhibit mitochondrial respiratory complex I: a mechanism for the action of berberine to activate AMP-activated protein kinase and improve insulin action. Diabetes, 57(5), 1414-1418.

Yin, J., Xing, H., & Ye, J. (2008). Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolism, 57(5), 712-717.

Zhang, Y., Li, X., Zou, D., Liu, W., Yang, J., Zhu, N., … & Gong, H. (2008). Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 93(7), 2559-2565.

Imanshahidi, M., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2010). Berberis Vulgaris and Berberine: An Update Review. Phytotherapy Research, 22(11), 1485-1494.

FDA. (2017). FDA approves new drug to treat type 2 diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treat-type-2-diabetes

Aroda, V. R., Bain, S. C., Cariou, B., Piletic, M., Rose, L., Axelsen, M., … & Marre, M. (2017). Efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide versus once-daily sitagliptin as an add-on to metformin, thiazolidinediones, or both, in patients with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN 2): a 56-week, double-blind, phase 3a, randomised trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 5(5), 341-354.

Nauck, M. A., Petrie, J. R., Sesti, G., Mannucci, E., Courrèges, J. P., Lindegaard, M. L., … & Madsbad, S. (2016). A phase 2, randomized, dose-finding study of the novel once-weekly human GLP-1 analog, semaglutide, compared with placebo and open-label liraglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care, 39(2), 231-241.

Pratley, R. E., Amod, A., Hoff, S. T., Kadowaki, T., Lingvay, I., Nauck, M., … & Soska, V. (2018). Oral semaglutide versus subcutaneous liraglutide and placebo in type 2 diabetes (PIONEER 4): a randomised, double-blind, phase 3a trial. The Lancet, 394(10192), 39-50.

Marso, S. P., Bain, S. C., Consoli, A., Eliaschewitz, F. G., Jódar, E., Leiter, L. A., … & Seufert, J. (2016). Semaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 375(19), 1834-1844.

Zhang, Y., Li, X., Zou, D., Liu, W., Yang, J., Zhu, N., … & Gong, H. (2008). Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 93(7), 2559-2565.

Sorli, C., Harashima, S. I., Tsoukas, G. M., Unger, J., Karsbøl, J. D., Hansen, T., & Bain, S. C. (2017). Efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide monotherapy versus placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN 1): a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multinational, multicentre phase 3a trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 5(4), 251-260.


dr_shawn

Patient focused integrative health care. Utilizing effective natural approaches designed to be used alone or to compliment conventional medical care.


Information

Address: 225 Duncan Mill Road Toronto, Ontario M3B3K9

Clinic: 416-490-8243

Fax: 416-490-9961

Mon-Sat 10am-3pm

Dr Shawn. All Rights Reserved. Developed by SEOGorillas