Can You Take Berberine and Folate Together?

Dose or timing may matter

The short answer

Berberine may reduce folate absorption by inhibiting intestinal folate transporters (PCFT) and may also interfere with folate metabolism by affecting dihydrofolate reductase activity.

How to arrange timing

Supplement folate or methylfolate when using berberine long-term; monitor homocysteine levels.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Yin J et al. Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolism. 2008;57(5):712-717

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.