Doctors Note Logo

Ubie mascot holding a Q&A card

Your Health Questions
Answered by Professionals

Get expert advice from current physicians on your health concerns, treatment options, and effective management strategies.

Need answers about current symptoms?

Common Questions

Q

How does berberine activate AMPK, the metabolic master switch?

Berberine activates AMPK, a key enzyme in energy regulation, by influencing various cellular pathways, which may help improve metabolism and reduce cancer risk.

Q

How does berberine help manage blood sugar levels?

Berberine helps lower blood sugar by improving how the body uses sugar and by making cells more sensitive to insulin.

Q

How does obesity worsen joint pain and osteoarthritis?

Obesity can make joint pain and osteoarthritis worse because it adds extra weight to the joints and can also cause hormonal changes that affect the joints.

Q

How does weight loss surgery reduce pressure on joints?

Weight loss surgery helps reduce pressure on joints by decreasing body weight, which can alleviate joint pain, especially in the hips and knees.

Q

How long do pain improvements last after weight loss surgery?

Pain improvements after weight loss surgery can vary, with some people experiencing lasting relief while others may develop chronic pain over time.

Q

How long does it typically take to see results from berberine supplements?

Berberine supplements may start showing effects in a few weeks, but the exact time can vary based on individual conditions and goals.

Q

Is berberine effective for reducing chronic inflammation?

Berberine may help reduce chronic inflammation, according to some studies. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects.

Q

Is berberine useful for individuals with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes?

Berberine may help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes, but more research is needed to confirm its benefits and safety.

Q

What are the health benefits of bariatric surgery besides weight loss?

Besides weight loss, bariatric surgery can improve health by reducing diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Q

What are the main health benefits of berberine supplements?

Berberine supplements may help with managing blood sugar levels, aid in weight loss, and offer cardiovascular benefits.

Q

What BMI is typically required for weight loss surgery to treat pain?

Weight loss surgery to treat pain often requires a BMI of 35 or higher, especially if there are related health issues like joint pain.

Q

What is the recommended dosage for berberine supplements?

The recommended dosage of berberine supplements varies, but studies suggest a common dose is around 500 mg taken two to three times daily.

Q

What makes liposomal berberine more effective than regular berberine?

Liposomal berberine is more effective than regular berberine because it is better absorbed by the body, which means it can work more effectively.

Q

What specific daily tasks can bariatric surgery help patients perform more easily?

Bariatric surgery can make daily tasks like walking, climbing stairs, and tying shoes easier for patients by improving their physical function.

Q

Are we eating too much or the wrong foods for obesity?

Eating too much and choosing unhealthy foods are key reasons why people become obese. Marketing unhealthy foods to kids and using artificial additives in food also contribute to obesity.

Q

Can obesity affect bone health and reproduction?

Obesity can affect bone health and reproduction by influencing bone metabolism and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It can also impact bone development in children if the mother has a high-fat diet during pregnancy.

Q

Does diet or physical activity contribute more to obesity?

Both diet and physical activity are important for managing obesity, but combining them is most effective.

Q

Does more exercise significantly reduce obesity?

Exercise can help reduce obesity, but it works best when combined with other lifestyle changes like diet.

Q

How can individuals prevent obesity?

To prevent obesity, individuals should focus on healthy eating and regular physical activity.

Q

How common is obesity worldwide?

Obesity is a common health issue worldwide, affecting a large number of people in many countries.

Q

How do ultra-processed foods contribute to weight gain?

Ultra-processed foods can lead to weight gain because they make you eat more calories than you need and can cause obesity over time.

Q

How does a sedentary lifestyle relate to obesity according to new research?

New research shows that sitting too much can lead to obesity, as it often means less exercise and more weight gain, especially around the belly.

Q

How does childhood obesity impact adult health?

Childhood obesity can lead to serious health problems in adulthood, including heart disease, diabetes, and increased risk of dying early.

Q

How has the modern food supply influenced obesity rates?

The modern food supply, especially the rise of ultra-processed foods, has significantly contributed to increasing obesity rates by making unhealthy foods more accessible and appealing.

Q

How is obesity diagnosed using BMI?

Obesity is diagnosed using BMI by calculating a person's weight and height, with a BMI of 30 or higher indicating obesity.

Q

Is calorie expenditure the main factor in obesity prevention?

Calorie expenditure is important in preventing obesity, but it's not the only factor; balancing calories consumed with calories burned is key.

Q

Is exercise still important for health if not for obesity?

Exercise is important for health beyond just managing weight; it helps your heart, bones, and mood.

Q

Is it true you can't outrun a bad diet?

You can't out-exercise a bad diet because eating healthy is important for overall well-being, even if you are active.

Q

Is lack of exercise the main cause of obesity?

Lack of exercise is a significant factor in obesity, but it is not the only cause. Obesity results from a combination of factors, including diet, genetics, and lifestyle.

Q

What are common misunderstandings about obesity causes?

Common misunderstandings about obesity include blaming it solely on high-fructose corn syrup and not recognizing the complex factors involved, such as genetics and metabolism.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom checker

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get a free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.