Berberine vs arterial plaque

Two years ago, a 2D echocardiogram revealed coronary calcification, which was preventing one heart valve from closing. My doctor indicated that no surgery was immediately warranted, and the issue would be monitored. I sought some way to address the calcification, and eventually learned about Berberine possibly being able to dissolve the calcification. 

I started taking Berberine as a daily supplement about a year ago. 

Last month, a follow up ultrasound of my heart found all valves to be functioning normally, and there were no signs of coronary calcification! I am so relieved and glad that it worked. Meanwhile, my cardiologist asked for the second time, "What's Berberine?"

Go figure.

My A1C was 6.8 / 8 months ago. I looked for ways other than low carb /exercise which I have been doing already for years to try and help lower my A1C. Came across some good info on Berberine. So immediately found a respected brand and began taking 500 mg a day. After 8 months and no change in diet/exercise from normal routine my A1C came back at 5.1 on Friday. I was pretty hyped about that. Having any cardiovascular benefits on top would be a bonus.

My dad took both Metformin and Berberine. Metformin affected his kidneys negatively and his blood markers for cholesterol and liver were not great . With Berberine his cholesterol levels went down and his liver markers improved and his kidneys too

I started taking berberine about a year ago to help improve blood sugar management and gut health and it has definitely helped with both. My A1C dropped from 5.8 to 5.5 and my gut is functioning much better. I've never had my arterial calcium score tested, but my vascular health (BP, lipid profile, etc) are excellent so I'm not too concerned about plaque. In any case, I do recommend 500mg berberine daily for prevention, but be sure to choose a reputable brand that is 3rd party lab tested for potency and purity.

I take it, for blood sugar lowering. I had 8,5 a1C and now, for more than 4 months, 5,5 .....for heart, I take also krill oil, good quality fish oil, and garlic oil. I had no previous heart problems, but these measures (plus daily gym) ensurem my last cardio exams were 100% OK