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The 11 Best Berberine Supplements Recommended By RDs

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Published on December 6, 2024
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Berberine is a natural compound found in a variety of plants such as goldenseal, barberry, and Oregon grape. It can be taken as a supplement before meals and has become increasingly popular because of its impact on health.

Some research suggests that berberine could help manage blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and maybe even reduce cholesterol.

 It may also help the body metabolize glucose and regulate the menstrual cycles of people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), according to Vanessa Imus, RD, of Integrated Nutrition for Weight Loss in Bothell, Washington.

 It’s been dubbed nature’s Ozempic because it appears to affect appetite control and weight loss like the GLP-1 agonist semaglutide (Ozempic).

However, as a registered dietitian with years of experience providing nutritional guidance, I know that not all berberine supplements are created equal. To help you find the safest berberine supplements out there, I helped the Everyday Health team and six additional nutrition experts evaluate over 15 berberine supplements. Here are the ones we recommend.

Our Top Picks for Berberine Supplements

When to Consult Your Doctor

Everyday Health recommends speaking with your healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your diet to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your health needs. It's especially important if you take prescription medications, like blood sugar-lowering drugs like metformin and insulin or blood pressure medications, because berberine can amplify their effects. People with liver conditions, who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and who are on blood thinners should also exercise caution.

Like for all supplements, the safety and effectiveness of berberine is not strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so it’s important to consult a qualified healthcare expert when making your decision.

SoWell Berberine supplement

Best for Weight Loss

SoWell Balanced

Buy Now

Pros

  • Contains chromium and cinnamon for weight-management support
  • Physician formulated
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Only sold on the manufacturer's website
  • Not third-party tested
  • Berberine per serving: 900 mg berberine hydrochloride
  • Other ingredients: 400 mg cinnamon bark powder, 400 mcg chromium
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: One capsule before your heaviest meal; work up to two capsules daily for optimal tolerance
  • Third-party tested: No

Despite the nature’s Ozempic moniker, berberine does not produce the same improvements in weight as GLP-1 medications, though it may provide more modest appetite-reducing benefits, which could support you as you try to lose weight. And if this is why you’re interested in berberine, Lainey Younkin, RD, LDN, owner of Lainey Younkin Nutrition in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends SoWell Balanced for its physician-designed formula and added chromium and cinnamon, two ingredients that may also have an impact on weight loss. “Not only does it contain 900 milligrams (mg) of berberine hydrochloride (HCL), the most traditional form of berberine, but it also has 400 mg of cinnamon bark powder and 400 micrograms (mcg) of chromium as chromium picolinate,” Younkin says.

Studies show that chromium picolinate may reduce weight and body fat by helping regulate blood sugar and enhance insulin sensitivity.

 It may also act as an appetite suppressant. Other evidence suggests that cinnamon could reduce weight and waist circumference, and positively affect blood sugar control.

Be aware that SoWell Balanced is not third-party tested, though it was formulated by an obesity medicine physician who has direct experience and expertise in weight management.

Best for Blood Sugar Control

Now Berberine Glucose Support

$21.40 at Amazon
$39.99Now 46% Off
Buy on Amazon $21.40

Pros

  • May help with blood sugar management
  • Contains MCT oil for enhanced absorption
  • Third-party tested
  • CGMP certified

Cons

  • Large pill may be hard to swallow
  • May cause stomach upset
  • Berberine per serving: 1,200 mg berberine hydrochloride
  • Other ingredients: 700 mg MCT oil
  • Form: Softgels
  • Serving size: Three softgels daily
  • Third-party tested: Yes
One of the most common uses of berberine is for blood sugar management. According to Toby Amidor RD, and founder of Toby Amidor Nutrition in New York City, “Berberine may help improve how cells respond to insulin and promote better movement of glucose (i.e., sugar) into the cells.” So if this is what you’re interested in, we recommend Now Berberine Glucose Support. Now has a long-standing reputation as a quality brand that rigorously tests its supplements. Three 400 mg capsules a day provide 1,200 mg of berberine to support healthy blood sugar levels.

In addition, this supplement contains MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oil, which is “a type of fat derived from coconut oil that can promote berberine absorption,” Amidor explains. This supplement is also certified by Underwriters Laboratories, she adds, ensuring that the product has met the safety, quality, and security criteria set by this third-party organization, which sets strict standards.

Now adheres to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs), an additional layer of protection to ensure that there are certain quality and safety procedures in the supplement production process.

“Berberine helps lower blood sugar and could be as effective as metformin, a diabetes medication, in lowering blood sugar and hemoglobin A1C in patients with type 2 diabetes, according to a study,” says Younkin.

 Another study showed that berberine was superior to metformin in helping reduce high cholesterol and obesity. Berberine can also help lower blood glucose.

The Now brand is deeply dedicated to charity and reducing malnutrition. It is one of two founding members of Vitamin Angels, a nonprofit organization that donates essential vitamins to malnourished children worldwide.

A note on safety: “Because berberine can lower blood sugar, check with your doctor before taking it if you are taking other blood sugar-lowering medications like metformin,” says Younkin.

Best for Cholesterol

Thorne Berberine

$42 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $42

Pros

  • Includes two forms of berberine
  • Phytosome complex for better absorption
  • Ingredient and testing transparency
  • Gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free

Cons

  • Not for those with sunflower or pea allergies
  • Not third-party tested
  • Berberine per serving: 1,000 mg (450 mg berberine HCL, 550 mg berberine phytosome)
  • Other ingredients: None
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: One or two capsules daily
  • Third-party tested: No
Thorne Berberine is our top choice for supporting healthy cholesterol levels due to its dosage of berberine and dual-action formula. A 500 mg dose of berberine has been shown to reduce cholesterol.

 Thorne's dual-action formula packs in two forms of berberine for maximum benefits: 450 mg of berberine hydrochloride and 550 mg of berberine phytosome, a fat molecule surrounding it that may offer protection from stomach acid. A study of 12 volunteers showed that berberine phytosome offered superior absorption compared to berberine HCL alone.

This added extract can make berberine more readily available to provide the desired benefits for healthy cholesterol support. A meta-analysis published in 2021 revealed that berberine supplementation may help improve hyperlipidemia, or high blood fat levels, says Kathryn Durston, RDN, owner of Naturally Good Nutrition in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

 The findings showed that berberine alone can significantly lower total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol specifically, she explains. This meta-analysis also showed that berberine may boost HDL ("good") cholesterol, which supports heart health and aids in managing hyperlipidemia, Durston adds.

While Thorne Berberine is not third-party tested (the gold standard of supplement quality), we appreciate the company’s transparency into its independent research and product testing. Not all supplement brands do regular in-house testing to adhere to the highest safety, quality, and potency standards.

Thorne also shares fact sheets on each ingredient and details on its manufacturing process. Knowing where your supplement comes from can provide peace of mind.

Best for Gut Health

Garden of Life Liposomal Berberine

$25 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $25

Pros

  • Added probiotics and chromium to support gut health
  • Liposomal berberine for enhanced absorption
  • No gluten, dairy, or soy
  • Third-party tested

Cons

  • Added probiotics may cause indigestion
  • Shipping is not included in returns
  • Berberine per serving: 1,000 mg liposomal berberine
  • Other ingredients: 200 mcg chromium, 4.5 g Bacillus coagulans
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: Two capsules daily
  • Third-party tested: Yes
“Some research suggests that berberine may positively influence gut health by lowering the number of unhealthy bacteria in the gut,” says Caitlin Beale, RDN, owner of Caitlin Beale Wellness in San Francisco, California.

 Garden of Life Liposomal Berberine is our pick for gut health due to its third-party certification, highly absorbable berberine, and added probiotics.

Third-party certification requires an independent entity to test the product's manufacturing process to ensure that it complies with the highest quality, safety, and performance standards.

Liposomal berberine enhances absorption by protecting the supplement from stomach acid during digestion.

 In this form, the berberine is surrounded by microscopic lipid (fat) molecules called liposomes, which serve as delivery vehicles transporting berberine through the body for optimal absorption. They do this either directly when the supplement is in your mouth or by preventing its breakdown by digestive acids when it reaches the stomach.

In addition to liposomal berberine, this Garden of Life supplement includes 250 million colony-forming units of Bacillus coagulans, a well-studied probiotic strain that supports the gut microbiome and effectively lowers the severity of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, says Beale.

 While probiotics are generally beneficial for gut health, some people may experience gas, bloating, or constipation. However, most people report that these symptoms typically resolve within a few days.

Garden of Life Liposomal Berberine also contains chromium, which can provide additional blood sugar benefits and support gut health.

Note: If you want to return the product, you have to pay for shipping.

Best for PCOS

Pure Encapsulations Berberine UltraSorb

$49.50 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $49.50

Pros

  • Patented form of berberine for people with PCOS
  • Phytosome berberine for better absorption
  • Vegan
  • No gluten, dairy, or soy

Cons

  • Lower dose compared with other brands
  • Cannot return once opened
  • Not third-party tested
  • Berberine per serving: 550 mg Berbevis berberine
  • Other ingredients: None
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: One capsule once or twice daily (two may be needed to provide the full benefits for people with PCOS)
  • Third-party tested: No

If you have polycystic ovary syndrome, you’re probably looking for ways to help manage your hormonal, metabolic, and menstrual cycle fluctuations. Pure Encapsulations Berberine UltraSorb is our top pick for the best berberine for people with PCOS, as it contains a patented form of berberine called Berbevis specifically studied in those with the condition. The company also conducts ongoing research to demonstrate the effectiveness of its products.

According to Beale, ”One small study found that after taking Berbervis, women with PCOS had significant reductions in blood lipids, fat mass, body mass index, and testosterone, and better blood sugar control.”

 She adds that berberine led to better improvements in hormone markers like testosterone than metformin, a medication often used to treat PCOS.

Research has also shown that taking 500 mg of berberine twice daily for six months helped improve irregular menstrual cycles, a common issue for people with PCOS.

 Taking two Pure Encapsulations capsules may be needed to provide these benefits.

While Pure Encapsulations Berberine UltraSorb is not third-party tested, the formulation is developed by medical and nutrition experts, providing users with added peace of mind. The company also transparently shares its research findings on its website, where they can be easily found.

Best for Heart Health

Nature’s Bounty Berberine

$16.95 at Amazon
$27.49Now 38% Off
Buy on Amazon $16.95

Pros

  • Effective dose for cholesterol and triglyceride support
  • Undergoes regular product testing
  • Free of many major allergens
  • Vegetarian

Cons

  • Not sold directly on the company's website
  • Not third-party tested
  • Berberine per serving: 1,000 mg berberine hydrochloride
  • Other ingredients: None
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: 2 capsules
  • Third-party tested: No

If you’re seeking a berberine supplement to promote heart health, Nature’s Bounty contains 1,000 mg of berberine in two capsules to support cardiovascular health. Nature’s Bounty is a well-known supplement manufacturer that's been in business for 50 years, and while its products are not third-party tested, the company commits to testing its products every month to confirm that its ingredients are of the highest potency and effectiveness. “Nature's Bounty prioritizes high-quality ingredients and conducts numerous tests throughout the manufacturing process to ensure that each supplement meets purity and potency standards,” says Younkin. She recommends splitting the dose, taking one capsule at one meal and the other with a different meal for optimal absorption.

“Berberine supplementation may benefit heart health by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels,” says Durston. She again refers to the meta-analysis published in 2021 showing that berberine can significantly lower triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol, and may boost HDL.

Nature’s Bounty Berberine is also sodium-free, which is a benefit for people following low-sodium diets for heart health, and is free of many major allergens, including dairy, soy, wheat, and fish.

Best for Inflammation

NatureBell Berberine

$26.99 at Amazon
$35.95Now 25% Off
Buy on Amazon $26.99

Pros

  • Contains anti-inflammatory cinnamon and turmeric
  • Third-party tested
  • Free of many major allergens
  • Vegetarian

Cons

  • Lower berberine dose than others on our list
  • Not sold directly on the company's website
  • Berberine per serving: 200 mg
  • Other ingredients: 1,000 mg Ceylon cinnamon, 300 mg turmeric
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: Two capsules daily
  • Third-party tested: Yes
“Current research has discovered anti-inflammatory effects with berberine supplementation,” says Durston.

 Chronic inflammation is associated with various conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, so taking steps to lower inflammation through your diet, lifestyle, and supplementation is essential.
NatureBell Berberine is our top pick for inflammation, as it contains added cinnamon and turmeric, two anti-inflammatory compounds.

 The company submits its products for independent testing by a third party and provides a certificate of analysis of the results.
While this berberine supplement shows a 1,500 mg serving on the label, this dose is a blend of the three compounds: 200 mg of berberine, 1,000 mg of cinnamon, and 300 mg of turmeric for a total of 1,500 mg. The 200 mg of berberine in this NatureBell supplement is lower than the dose seen in most studies to reduce inflammation.

 It’s possible that the cinnamon and turmeric work together with the berberine to provide compounded anti-inflammatory effects.

NatureBell Berberine is free of the common allergens gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, tree nuts, and peanuts.

Best for Immunity

Doctor Recommended Supplements Berberine Plus

$34.95 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $34.95

Pros

  • Contains royal jelly for immunity support
  • Third-party tested
  • Free of many major allergens

Cons

  • May cause stomach upset
  • Not sold directly on the company's website
  • Berberine per serving: 1,200 mg berberine hydrochloride
  • Other ingredients: 10 mg royal jelly
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: Two capsules daily
  • Third-party tested: Yes
While more research is needed, some studies have shown that berberine may be associated with reduced inflammation, specifically in people with autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis, colitis, and arthritis.

Doctor Recommended Supplements Berberine Plus contains a clinically studied dose of berberine plus 10 mg of royal jelly, which can benefit immunity. “Research supports that royal jelly, which comes from honeybees, has potent properties that may help regulate your immune system and reduce inflammatory markers,” says Durston.

“This supplement is also third-party tested for safety and efficacy, and it’s free of all major allergens, which is a huge benefit for many people,” she adds. In particular, it’s free from gluten, wheat, milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, and shellfish.

We also appreciate the company's flexible return policy to provide a full refund or replacement if you’re not satisfied with your purchase.

Best Budget

Horbäach Berberine Ceylon Cinnamon Complex

$18.99 at Amazon
$22.34Now 15% Off
Buy on Amazon $18.99

Pros

  • Most affordable on our list
  • Contains cinnamon
  • Free of many major allergens

Cons

  • Proprietary blend
  • Low berberine dose
  • Not third-party tested
  • Berberine per serving: 2,000 mg berberine Ceylon cinnamon complex (proprietary blend, with an unknown amount of berberine)
  • Other ingredients: Ceylon cinnamon
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: One capsule daily
  • Third-party tested: No

If you’re on a tight budget but want to give berberine a try, these berberine capsules are a budget-friendly option, costing roughly $9 per month. “Horbäach Berberine Ceylon Cinnamon Complex is the best berberine supplement for your wallet. In addition to berberine, this supplement contains concentrated Ceylon cinnamon, which has potential medicinal benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,” says Durston.

This product contains a total of 2,000 mg of a berberine and Ceylon cinnamon complex, which can provide enhanced benefits due to cinnamon’s health-promoting properties.

 However, the exact dose of berberine is unknown because it’s part of a proprietary blend, so this product may contain more cinnamon than berberine.

While Horbäach Berberine Ceylon Cinnamon Complex is not third-party tested, the company adheres to CGMPs to ensure that quality control measures are followed during the manufacturing process.

Since it’s so affordable and contains berberine and cinnamon, this supplement may be worth a try if you’re on a tight budget. However, it’s unclear whether the berberine dose will provide meaningful benefits.

Best Absorption

Nature Made Better Absorption Berberine Phytosome

$44.99 at Amazon
$49.99Now 10% Off
Buy on Amazon $44.99

Pros

  • Phytosome form for enhanced absorption
  • Most recommended brand by health professionals
  • Gluten-free

Cons

  • Most expensive on our list
  • May contain allergens
  • Not third-party tested
  • Berberine per serving: 550 mg Berbevis berberine phytosome
  • Other ingredients: None
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: One capsule, once or twice daily
  • Third-party tested: No
Nature Made Better Absorption Berberine Phytosome is our top pick if you’re seeking a quality berberine supplement that is highly absorbable. “Nature Made is trusted for delivering high-quality supplements with ingredients designed to maximize bioavailability. This product contains berberine phytosome, which is much better absorbed compared to other forms of berberine,” says Imus.

According to a U.S. News & World Report survey, Nature Made is the most recommended vitamin brand by medical experts and pharmacists. Although not third-party tested, Nature Made products are created by a team of scientists, registered dietitians, and a naturopathic doctor that routinely tracks emerging science to formulate products for maximum effectiveness.

Nature Made Better Absorption Berberine Phytosome contains 550 mg of berberine that can be taken up to two times a day for a total of 1,100 mg of berberine. This product is labeled gluten-free, but it may contain other common allergens. If you are concerned about allergies, it’s best to confirm with the manufacturer before purchasing.

Best Vegan

NutriFlair Berberine+ With Ceylon Cinnamon

$26.98 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $26.98

Pros

  • Vegan
  • Lab tested
  • CGMP-certified
  • Soy-, gluten-, dairy-free

Cons

  • Lack of transparency with product testing results
  • Some users reported upset stomach
  • Not third-party tested
  • Berberine per serving: 1,200 mg berberine hydrochloride
  • Other ingredients: 250 mg Ceylon cinnamon
  • Form: Capsules
  • Serving size: Two capsules daily
  • Third-party tested: No

NutriFlair Berberine+ With Ceylon Cinnamon is our top pick for a vegan supplement due to its high dose of berberine and addition of Ceylon cinnamon for added benefits.

“NutriFlair offers a potent, organic blend that is vegan and free from GMOs [genetically modified organisms], making it an ideal choice for those seeking a vegan-friendly option. Its combination with Ceylon cinnamon supports glucose metabolism,” says Durston.

 GMOs are genetically engineered in some way to modify their characteristics.

While NutriFlair's berberine supplement is not third-party tested, the company adheres to CGMPs and conducts in-house testing, although those results aren’t posted on its website. This lack of transparency is a common concern about many supplements on the market, and we encourage customers to contact manufacturers and ask for the results for added peace of mind.

As when taking any supplement, individual results can vary, and it’s important to discuss what’s best for you with your doctor.

Comparison Table

Best For
Dose
Berberine Per Serving
Third-Party Tested
SoWell Balanced
Weight loss
2 capsules daily
900 mg berberine hydrochloride
No
Buy
Now Berberine Glucose Support
Blood sugar control
3 softgels daily
1200 mg berberine hydrochloride
No
Buy
Thorne Berberine
Cholesterol
1-2 capsules daily
1000 mg (450 mg of berberine HCL, 550 mg of berberine phytosome)
No
Buy
Garden of Life Liposomal Berberine
Gut health
2 capsules daily
1000 mg liposomal berberine
Yes
Buy
Pure Encapsulations Berberine UltraSorb
PCOS
1-2 capsules daily
550 mg Berbervis berberine
No
Buy
Nature’s Bounty Berberine
Heart health
2 capsules daily
1000 mg berberine hydrochloride
No
Buy
NatureBell Berberine
Inflammation
2 capsules daily
200 mg berberine
Yes
Buy
Doctor Recommended Supplements Berberine Plus
Immunity
2 capsules daily
1200 mg berberine hydrochloride
Yes
Buy
Horbäach Berberine Ceylon Cinnamon Complex
Budget
1 capsule daily
2000 mg berberine Ceylon cinnamon complex
No
Buy
Nature Made Better Absorption Berberine Phytosome
Absorption
1 capsule, 1-2 times daily

550 mg Berbervis berberine phytosome

No
Buy
NutriFlair Berberine+ With Ceylon Cinnamon
Vegan
2 capsules daily
1200 mg berberine hydrochloride
No
Buy

How We Determined the Best Berberine Supplements

To select this list of the best berberine supplements, we asked six registered dietitians for their top picks and what they look for in a quality berberine supplement.

Dose: We prioritized berberine supplements with doses shown to be clinically effective in studies or products that contain ingredients shown to enhance absorption in lower doses. “Common doses range from 500 to 1,500 mg per day, divided into multiple doses,” says Stefani Stewart, RD, founder of Stefani Stewart Nutrition. We looked for supplements with this minimal dose or recommended multiple doses per day to meet this effective dose.

Absorption: We screened for berberine supplements with optimal absorption, such as those with a berberine phytosome complex or added MCT oil, so your body can put more of it to use.

Intended use: We narrowed down the best berberine supplements for each category based on dose, ingredients, and overall effectiveness for different uses. This included berberine combined with ingredients such as probiotics for gut health or turmeric for inflammation.

Third-party or independent lab testing: We always strive to find third-party tested supplements that meet the highest quality, potency, and safety standards. Unfortunately, most berberine supplements are not third-party certified, but we did include a few on this list.

Supplement companies may choose not to seek third-party certification, which is a lengthy process that can be costly. Many companies rely on expert validation from healthcare experts, brand loyalty, and building customer trust instead of third-party testing to validate the quality of their products.

If the products were not third-party certified, we prioritized berberine supplements that underwent extensive in-house lab testing and companies that are transparent when sharing results and follow good manufacturing practices for quality control.

What to Look for When Buying Berberine Supplements

When shopping for a berberine supplement, there are a few key things to look for:

  • Potency You’ll want a dose that matches those seen to be effective in research. “Choose a supplement that contains at least 500 mg berberine per pill. Otherwise, you may end up taking several pills to get the desired health benefit,” says Imus.
  • Quality Certifications “When looking for a berberine supplement, choose a supplement that has been third-party tested or certified,” says Younkin. While most berberine supplements don’t fit this bill, a handful of our picks do. Another reputable certification is CGMP certification, which also requires a product to meet stringent regulations and quality standards during the manufacturing process.
  • Potential Allergens and Other Ingredients Check the dose and the other ingredients, like chromium or cinnamon, says Younkin, “to ensure it aligns with your health goals and doesn't contain any ingredients you are allergic to, or that could interact with medications you take.”
  • Price Ensure that the berberine supplement you choose fits your budget, since you’ll need to take it consistently and long enough to experience its potential benefits. Prices vary based on the product, but many companies offer discounts on your first order or when you buy in bulk.

FAQs About Berberine Supplements

What are berberine supplements used for?
Berberine supplements are taken for weight loss, blood sugar control, heart health, immunity, inflammation, and more.
Berberine is safe for most people, but some people should take extra precautions. Those who are pregnant, are breastfeeding, or have a history of liver disease should not take berberine because there’s not enough evidence of its safety for people in these groups. Berberine may interact with certain medications, so you should consult your doctor if you’re taking any prescription medications.
Berberine supplements can cause gastrointestinal distress in some people, such as bloating, gas, and constipation or diarrhea. It can also reduce blood sugar, which may be exacerbated if you are already taking blood sugar-lowering medications like metformin or insulin.
Some research shows that berberine can help support weight loss and reduce appetite as part of a reduced-calorie diet and exercise program. However, Amidor advises, “berberine isn’t a magic pill, and if you're taking the supplements for weight loss or glucose control, it should still be paired with a healthful lifestyle and diet.”
Berberine is best taken with meals for optimal absorption. For appetite reduction benefits, take it about 30 minutes before meals.

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Melissa Mitri, MS, RD

Author

Melissa Mitri is a registered dietitian-nutritionist, weight loss specialist, and expert health writer with over 18 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. She owns Melissa Mitri Nutrition, a virtual private practice helping women achieve sustainable weight loss.

Melissa is a freelance writer and editor for dietitians and wellness brands. She helps translate complicated scientific research into easy-to-understand terms for the public. Melissa has written for various publications and websites, such as HealthCanal, WellnessVerge, Nature Made, Garden of Life, the Avocado Board, and more.

Melissa believes everyone has the power to improve their health, one small habit at a time. Her approach to healthy eating focuses on what to eat more of for better health versus what to restrict or eliminate in the diet.

Melissa lives in Connecticut with her husband and two boys, where she enjoys training for half-marathons, reading, and traveling with her family.

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Reyna-Franco-bio

Reyna Franco, RDN

Medical Reviewer
Member of American College of Lifestyle Medicine

Reyna Franco, RDN, is a New York City–based dietitian-nutritionist, certified specialist in sports dietetics, and certified personal trainer. She is a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and has a master's degree in nutrition and exercise physiology from Columbia University.

In her private practice, she provides medical nutrition therapy for weight management, sports nutrition, diabetes, cardiac disease, renal disease, gastrointestinal disorders, cancer, food allergies, eating disorders, and childhood nutrition. To serve her diverse patients, she demonstrates cultural sensitivity and knowledge of customary food practices. She applies the tenets of lifestyle medicine to reduce the risk of chronic disease and improve health outcomes for her patients.

Franco is also a corporate wellness consultant who conducts wellness counseling and seminars for organizations of every size. She taught sports nutrition to medical students at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, taught life cycle nutrition and nutrition counseling to undergraduate students at LaGuardia Community College, and precepts nutrition students and interns. She created the sports nutrition rotation for the New York Distance Dietetic Internship program.

She is the chair of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine's Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist Member Interest Group. She is also the treasurer and secretary of the New York State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, having previously served in many other leadership roles for the organization, including as past president, awards committee chair, and grant committee chair, among others. She is active in the local Greater New York Dietetic Association and Long Island Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, too.

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