7 Surprising Benefits of Berberine for Blood Sugar Control

Introduction: Understanding Berberine and Its Role in Blood Sugar Management

Berberine, a natural bioactive compound extracted from plants like Berberis, has gained significant attention for its potential in managing blood sugar levels. Its long history in traditional medicine supports its use, yet modern research highlights its effectiveness in addressing metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes. This alkaloid works by influencing multiple pathways, offering a well-rounded approach for individuals seeking better glycemic balance.

One notable mechanism of berberine is its ability to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), often referred to as the body’s “metabolic master switch.” By doing so, it helps regulate glucose uptake, improves insulin sensitivity, and promotes cellular energy balance. When synergized with natural compounds like Ceylon cinnamon, the benefits of berberine may be enhanced, providing an even more robust support system for healthy blood sugar levels.

Additionally, emerging trends have explored the potential integration of berberine with other natural supplements. Reishi mushroom blends and energy-supporting cordyceps mushrooms may complement berberine’s effects, promoting overall metabolic health and energy regulation. These adaptogenic ingredients are further joined by lion’s mane medicinal mushrooms, known for their neuroprotective properties, creating a holistic approach to wellness. For those exploring unique delivery systems, combinations such as mushroom cocoa mixtures with lion’s mane and cordyceps are gaining traction for their potential benefits.

Berberine’s multifaceted role extends beyond blood sugar management, impacting areas like appetite control and fat metabolism. It has indirect connections with compounds like OEA (oleoylethanolamide), which regulate satiety and energy balance. Similar innovations like glutathione nasal spray enhance cellular detoxification and may amplify overall metabolic support, complementing berberine’s primary functions. Together, these advancements underscore the growing importance of berberine in managing blood sugar while fostering broader health benefits.

What Is Berberine? A Closer Look at the Ancient Compound

Berberine is a natural bioactive compound extracted from various plants, including the Berberis shrub. Revered for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, this vibrant yellow alkaloid has been employed for a diverse range of therapeutic purposes. Modern research highlights its potential in improving blood sugar regulation, weight management, and even cardiovascular health, placing it under increasing scientific scrutiny as a powerful natural supplement.

Biochemically, berberine functions by interacting with the body at a cellular level. One of its most notable mechanisms is its ability to activate an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), often referred to as the body’s metabolic master switch. Activation of this enzyme contributes to improvements in glucose metabolism, making berberine a significant candidate for managing conditions like type 2 diabetes.

Berberine is often combined with complementary ingredients to maximize its therapeutic effects. For instance, pairing berberine with Ceylon cinnamon may enhance insulin sensitivity, while blends like reishi mushroom or energy support cordyceps mushroom are increasingly incorporated in metabolic health regimens. Other formulations, such as mushroom cocoa with lion’s mane and cordyceps, are designed to provide neuroprotective and adaptogenic benefits alongside metabolic support.

Emerging innovations in supplementation have further expanded berberine’s utility. Products like glutathione nasal spray can offer comprehensive antioxidant support, and weight management can be targeted with compounds like OEA (oleoylethanolamide) aimed at appetite control. These advances underscore berberine’s adaptability across diverse health applications, from metabolic pathways to enhanced wellness.

Through its dynamic interactions, berberine demonstrates robust potential as a natural remedy, inviting both traditional and modern applications for holistic health approaches.

How Berberine Supports Healthy Blood Glucose Levels

Berberine, a natural compound extracted from various plants, has captured attention for its ability to support healthy blood glucose levels. This alkaloid exerts its effects by targeting multiple biological pathways associated with glucose metabolism, making it a versatile ally in maintaining balanced sugar levels. One of its primary mechanisms involves activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), often referred to as the body’s cellular energy regulator. By triggering this enzyme, berberine can stimulate glucose uptake into cells and improve insulin sensitivity, both critical for blood sugar management.

Another significant way berberine supports glucose control is by reducing glucose production in the liver, known as gluconeogenesis. This action helps prevent excessive sugar release into the bloodstream, particularly beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. In addition, berberine positively impacts gut flora by modulating microbiota composition. Studies suggest that a healthy gut microbiome can influence glucose metabolism and insulin signaling, further contributing to stable blood sugar.

When combined with natural supplements like berberine with ceylon cinnamon, its effects may be amplified due to the complementary benefits of cinnamon on glucose absorption and insulin balance. Ingredients such as reishi mushroom blends, often partnered with lions mane medicinal mushrooms, and energy support cordyceps mushrooms, are also gaining interest for their role in metabolic health. These adaptogenic properties, often found in combinations like mushroom cocoa lions mane cordyceps, may enhance the overall efficacy of berberine by reducing oxidative stress and promoting cellular health.

Additionally, berberine’s support pairs well with other health supplements, such as glutathione nasal spray for anti-oxidative benefits or oea oleoylethanolamide appetite control for reducing calorie intake. These integrative combinations may provide enhanced blood sugar stability while promoting overall metabolic health.

Enhancing Insulin Sensitivity with Berberine: The Science Behind It

Berberine, a bioactive compound extracted from plants like Berberis, has garnered attention for its profound effects on insulin sensitivity. Acting as a natural AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase) activator, it influences cellular energy balance, similar to the mechanism of some antidiabetic drugs. This activation is crucial because AMPK promotes glucose uptake, enhances mitochondrial function, and reduces insulin resistance—key factors in stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Studies suggest berberine modulates enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. It inhibits alpha-glucosidase enzymes, delaying carbohydrate breakdown in the gut and curbing post-meal glucose spikes. Insulin sensitivity is further enhanced as berberine combats inflammation—a common contributor to insulin resistance—by lowering inflammatory markers such as TNF-alpha and IL-6. These anti-inflammatory effects parallel those observed in adaptogenic substances like reishi mushroom blends and lion’s mane medicinal mushrooms, which are known for promoting metabolic health and reducing oxidative stress.

Berberine also aids lipid metabolism, indirectly improving insulin function by reducing triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels. Notable comparisons arise with components like glutathione nasal spray or compounds like OEA (oleoylethanolamide), both of which contribute to cellular health and metabolic optimization. When paired with supportive substances, such as berberine with Ceylon cinnamon, the synergistic effect on glycemic control appears even more pronounced.

Interestingly, berberine’s impact on energy metabolism draws parallels to adaptogens such as cordyceps mushrooms, frequently used for energy support. The holistic benefits extend to improvements in mitochondrial activity—the powerhouse of cells—highlighting its similarity to mushroom cocoa blends featuring lion’s mane and cordyceps mushrooms, which also target energy regulation.

Through scientific exploration, evidence confirms that berberine transforms the body’s response to insulin, positioning it as a potent, natural adjunct for addressing insulin resistance and promoting metabolic health.

Berberine’s Impact on Gut Health and Its Role in Glucose Regulation

Berberine’s influence on gut health is pivotal, as it directly impacts glucose metabolism and overall blood sugar control. The compound is known for its ability to support a thriving gut microbiome by promoting the balance of beneficial bacteria. An optimized gut environment plays a crucial role in improving insulin sensitivity and enhancing the body’s natural glucose regulation mechanisms.

One of the primary effects of berberine is its ability to modulate the gut microbiota. By encouraging the growth of favorable bacterial strains while inhibiting harmful pathogens, berberine helps maintain a balanced gut ecosystem. This balance, when combined with supportive interventions like berberine with ceylon cinnamon or powerhouse adaptogens such as a reishi mushroom blend, further fosters metabolic health.

Improved gut health can also lead to enhanced signaling of metabolic pathways. Berberine activates the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which serves as a metabolic master switch. This activation not only improves glucose uptake in cells but also reduces the production of glucose in the liver, providing dual action for blood sugar management. The presence of adaptogens like energy support cordyceps mushroom or lions mane medicinal mushrooms in supplementation protocols can potentially enhance these outcomes.

Berberine’s ability to reduce gut inflammation contributes significantly to its effectiveness. By lowering inflammatory markers and supporting gut lining integrity, it positively influences insulin sensitivity. These effects may be compounded with therapies such as glutathione nasal spray or oea oleoylethanolamide appetite control, which target inflammation and appetite regulation respectively.

Research also indicates that berberine inhibits alpha-glucosidase, a digestive enzyme. This delays carbohydrate absorption, preventing sudden glucose spikes. When paired with mushroom cocoa lions mane cordyceps, berberine may synergistically improve post-meal glucose control, showcasing its multi-faceted benefits on both gut health and metabolic function.

Lipid Profile Improvement: An Unexpected Bonus of Berberine

Berberine, traditionally renowned for its ability to regulate blood sugar, has also been linked to a notable improvement in lipid profiles, a lesser-known but remarkable benefit. When paired with complementary natural substances like Ceylon cinnamon and formulations such as a reishi mushroom blend, berberine helps to address cholesterol imbalances, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

Research underscores berberine’s efficacy in lowering LDL cholesterol, often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” while simultaneously increasing HDL cholesterol, or “good cholesterol.” This dual effect supports healthier arteries by limiting plaque buildup, a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Beyond its cholesterol-modulating effects, berberine has demonstrated the ability to reduce triglycerides, high levels of which may contribute to metabolic disorders. These lipid-lowering benefits combined with its blood sugar regulation highlight berberine as a pivotal tool for metabolic health.

The mechanism by which berberine influences lipid metabolism often parallels its glucose-lowering pathways. It activates AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase), a master regulator of cellular energy. Similar energy-metabolism benefits have also been observed when using supplements like energy support cordyceps mushroom and lion’s mane medicinal mushrooms, further suggesting a synergistic approach for those seeking natural health solutions.

For individuals battling high cholesterol in conjunction with insulin resistance, combining berberine with antioxidant-rich options like mushroom cocoa lions mane cordyceps or glutathione nasal spray could amplify its lipid-lowering effects. These combinations leverage berberine’s mechanisms by addressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction as a whole.

As interest in natural remedies grows, the ability of berberine to improve lipid profiles positions it as a valuable alternative. By blending berberine with targeted supplements like oea oleoylethanolamide appetite control, individuals may further optimize weight management, another key factor in maintaining a healthy lipid balance.

Berberine’s Potential to Aid in Weight Management for Diabetics

Berberine, a bioactive compound derived from various plants, has shown significant promise in supporting weight management, especially for individuals with diabetes. When combined with complementary ingredients such as Ceylon cinnamon, reishi mushroom blends, and oea oleoylethanolamide for appetite control, berberine’s therapeutic effects can extend beyond blood sugar regulation to address metabolic imbalances that hinder weight loss efforts.

One of berberine’s primary mechanisms involves activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), often referred to as the body’s “metabolic master switch.” By stimulating AMPK, berberine enhances energy metabolism, helping the body burn fat more efficiently. This metabolic boost is further reinforced by adaptogens like cordyceps mushrooms, which provide energy support for those struggling with fatigue—a common challenge for diabetics seeking to maintain an active lifestyle.

In addition to its metabolic benefits, berberine can improve gut microbiota composition, a factor closely linked to maintaining a healthy weight. It complements natural aids like lions mane medicinal mushrooms or mushroom cocoa blends with lions mane and cordyceps, which also promote intestinal health and cognitive focus. Studies suggest improved gut health may reduce systemic inflammation and indirectly support weight loss.

Moreover, berberine’s potential to reduce insulin resistance can help diabetics curb excessive hunger and sugar cravings, particularly when paired with appetite-regulating supplements like oea oleoylethanolamide. By promoting balanced blood sugar levels, berberine limits the glucose spikes and crashes that often lead to overeating or an energy slump.

For those managing weight alongside diabetes, combining berberine with natural enhancers like glutathione nasal spray for oxidative stress reduction might amplify its benefits. Together, these compounds work to support healthier metabolic processes, improve weight outcomes, and empower individuals to maintain better long-term control over their health.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Berberine: A Benefit for Pre-Diabetics and Diabetics

Berberine, a natural compound found in plants like Berberis, has demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects that are particularly beneficial for individuals managing pre-diabetes or diabetes. Chronic inflammation has been closely linked to insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism, and the onset of Type 2 diabetes. By addressing inflammation at its core, berberine may help mitigate these underlying conditions, offering both preventative and therapeutic benefits.

Berberine works by modulating inflammation pathways, particularly through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. These molecules are commonly overexpressed in individuals experiencing metabolic disturbances. By suppressing their activity, berberine plays a role in reducing systemic inflammation, which can alleviate stress on insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells and improve insulin sensitivity. This action directly supports blood sugar regulation and reduces complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

When used in combination with complementary ingredients like Ceylon cinnamon or reishi mushroom blend, berberine’s anti-inflammatory attributes are further amplified. For instance, Ceylon cinnamon is known for its ability to stabilize blood sugar, while reishi mushrooms contain adaptogenic properties that bolster immune response and combat inflammation. Together, these ingredients enhance berberine’s efficacy in reducing inflammation and improving metabolic health.

Additionally, incorporating supportive nutrients like lions mane medicinal mushrooms, cordyceps mushroom for energy support, and mushroom cocoa with lions mane and cordyceps can further promote overall anti-inflammatory benefits and enhance physical well-being for those with prediabetes or diabetes. These medicinal mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which contribute to tissue repair and reduce oxidative stress, complementing berberine’s role in maintaining cellular health.

By decreasing inflammation, berberine not only improves glucose metabolism but also helps reduce the risk of secondary complications such as neuropathy, cardiovascular issues, and kidney damage. These benefits highlight its versatile role in diabetic care.

Berberine’s Effect on Cellular Energy Balance and Mitochondrial Function

Berberine has emerged as a potent natural compound with significant benefits for cellular energy regulation and mitochondrial health. Studies reveal that berberine activates adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a critical enzyme responsible for maintaining cellular energy balance. By stimulating AMPK, berberine enhances energy metabolism and promotes efficient glucose uptake in cells, making it an essential tool for those exploring blood sugar management strategies.

Mitochondria, often referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cell, play a fundamental role in energy production. Berberine has been observed to improve mitochondrial function by increasing mitochondrial biogenesis and enhancing the efficiency of the electron transport chain. This upregulation supports optimal energy output, which may explain why berberine is frequently combined with energy support cordyceps mushroom supplements or even mushroom cocoa blends containing lion’s mane medicinal mushrooms and cordyceps. Such combinations may further amplify cellular energy production and metabolic activity.

In addition, berberine exhibits powerful antioxidant effects, mitigating oxidative stress within mitochondria. By reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), berberine helps protect mitochondrial DNA and cellular structures. This antioxidant property is often compared with the support provided by supplements like glutathione nasal spray, which similarly work to combat oxidative damage and maintain cellular health.

Furthermore, berberine’s ability to balance energy at the cellular level has potential implications for appetite control. It has been studied in parallel with compounds like OEA (oleoylethanolamide), which also regulate energy homeostasis and contribute to appetite suppression. These combined effects may be especially helpful for individuals managing blood sugar and weight simultaneously.

By promoting mitochondrial efficiency and cellular energy homeostasis, berberine’s influence extends well beyond glucose control, creating synergies when paired with popular adaptogens such as reishi mushroom blends and Ceylon cinnamon. Together, these compounds offer a holistic approach to enhancing metabolic health.

Evidence from Clinical Studies: The Efficacy of Berberine for Blood Sugar Control

Clinical studies have extensively investigated the potential of berberine as a natural aid for managing blood sugar levels. The research has consistently shown that berberine exerts significant effects on glucose metabolism, making it a promising option for individuals seeking alternative or complementary solutions to traditional treatments. When paired with other natural compounds like Ceylon cinnamon, the synergy may enhance its ability to regulate blood sugar, potentially benefiting individuals with metabolic dysfunctions.

One of the pivotal mechanisms of berberine lies in its activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), often referred to as the “metabolic master switch.” This enzyme plays a crucial role in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver. Studies comparing berberine to standard pharmaceutical interventions, such as metformin, suggest that berberine achieves comparable reductions in fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels.

Researchers have also explored berberine in combination with other natural ingredients, such as a reishi mushroom blend, energy-supportive cordyceps mushrooms, and Lion’s Mane medicinal mushrooms. Evidence suggests these combinations may contribute to overall metabolic health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, factors that influence glucose regulation. The addition of mushroom cocoa with Lion’s Mane and cordyceps has been particularly noted for enhancing energy levels while maintaining glycemic balance.

Further supporting evidence highlights berberine’s role in reducing postprandial glucose spikes by slowing carbohydrate digestion. Other studies have examined the compound in conjunction with modern appetite-regulating ingredients like OEA (oleoylethanolamide). This pairing may amplify its effectiveness by promoting satiety, which indirectly contributes to better blood sugar control.

Emerging research also evaluates berberine’s effect on mitigating oxidative stress, often enhanced when paired with supplements such as glutathione nasal spray. These adjunctive strategies collectively underline the compound’s wide-reaching metabolic benefits, centering on blood sugar regulation.

How Berberine Compares to Pharmaceutical Alternatives for Diabetes Management

Berberine, a natural compound derived from plants, has gained attention as a potential complementary therapy for managing diabetes. When compared to pharmaceutical options such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or SGLT2 inhibitors, berberine stands out for its multifaceted approach to blood sugar regulation without the reliance on synthetic chemicals. Its effects, particularly when paired with complementary ingredients like berberine with ceylon cinnamon, continue to be researched for long-term benefits.

Pharmaceutical agents are often the first line of treatment for type 2 diabetes and work primarily by targeting specific pathways, such as reducing hepatic glucose production or improving insulin sensitivity. Berberine functions similarly but through various mechanisms. It activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which helps regulate glucose metabolism and reduces insulin resistance—qualities also found in popular drugs like metformin. However, studies suggest that berberine might produce additional health effects, including lipid reduction and gut microbiome modulation.

Unlike pharmaceuticals, berberine is often included in holistic blends to amplify its effects. A reishi mushroom blend or energy support cordyceps mushroom formulations, for instance, may potentially enhance metabolic performance and provide added antioxidant benefits. Similarly, the inclusion of lions mane medicinal mushrooms can contribute to nerve health, a vital consideration for diabetic neuropathy management.

While pharmaceuticals excel in delivering precise and rapid glucose reduction, they often come with side effects like gastrointestinal distress or, in rarer cases, hypoglycemia. In contrast, berberine—with proper supplementation—tends to have fewer adverse effects. Some users incorporate metabolic-supportive alternatives, such as oea oleoylethanolamide appetite control or glutathione nasal spray, to address appetite management and oxidative stress.

Ultimately, the choice between berberine and pharmaceuticals depends on individual health profiles, goals, and tolerance for synthetic medications, but their complementary usage has shown promise in clinical contexts.

Are There Any Side Effects? Safety and Dosage Considerations

When utilizing berberine for blood sugar control, considering potential side effects, safety, and dosage is paramount. Berberine, often complemented by ingredients like Ceylon cinnamon, is renowned for its benefits, but improper use can lead to unwanted outcomes. Commonly, nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort may occur, especially when starting treatment. These effects often subside as the body adjusts. However, users should monitor symptoms carefully, particularly when combining berberine with Ceylon cinnamon or other supplements such as a reishi mushroom blend or energy support cordyceps mushroom.

A key safety consideration involves interactions with medications. Berberine may interfere with drugs that regulate blood sugar or blood pressure, potentially enhancing their effects and increasing the risk of hypoglycemia or hypotension. Individuals taking berberine alongside lions mane medicinal mushrooms, mushroom cocoa with lions mane and cordyceps, or metabolic boosters like OEA (oleoylethanolamide) should be aware of how combining supplements might amplify physiological changes.

Pregnant or nursing individuals are advised to avoid berberine, as existing research does not confirm its safety during these periods. Additionally, those with underlying health conditions like liver or kidney issues should exercise caution. Employing high doses or prolonged use can strain these organs, emphasizing the importance of proper dosing.

For adults, a commonly recommended dosage is 500 mg of berberine, taken two to three times daily with meals. This frequency helps maintain stable blood sugar levels without overwhelming the system. It is advisable to begin with lower doses to assess tolerance. Products supporting related health goals, such as glutathione nasal spray for cellular health or adaptogenic blends like cordyceps mushrooms, should be introduced gradually to minimize potential interactions.

Consultation with a healthcare provider remains crucial, especially when incorporating multiple supplements. Understanding how berberine fits into a broader wellness strategy can help optimize its efficacy and ensure safety.

Integrating Berberine into Your Routine: Practical Tips and Recommendations

Incorporating berberine into daily life can yield optimal benefits for blood sugar control, especially when combined with complementary supplements like Ceylon cinnamon or medicinal mushrooms. The key lies in deliberate planning, consistent use, and aligning it with other supportive lifestyle practices. Here are evidence-based recommendations for creating a feasible regimen:

Choosing a High-Quality Supplement

Select a berberine supplement crafted by a reputable manufacturer, ideally combined with synergistic ingredients such as Ceylon cinnamon. This pairing may help enhance its glycemic management properties. Consumers may also explore supplements that blend berberine with reishi mushrooms or energy-support cordyceps mushrooms for metabolism and overall vitality.

Optimal Dosage & Timing

Berberine is often most effective when taken in divided doses, typically two to three times daily, alongside meals. Starting with a lower dose can minimize side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort. Gradually adjust as advised by healthcare providers to achieve therapeutic levels.

Combining with Medicinal Mushrooms

Incorporate products like mushroom cocoa containing lion’s mane and cordyceps to add mental clarity, energy support, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Lion’s mane medicinal mushrooms, in particular, can complement berberine’s systemic health effects.

Pairing with Additional Supplements

For broader health benefits, consider using berberine alongside supplements like glutathione nasal spray, which supports detoxification, or Oleoylethanolamide (OEA) based appetite-control products to balance cravings effectively. These can seamlessly integrate with a berberine-focused routine.

Monitoring Outcomes

Individuals should regularly track blood sugar levels to assess progress. Adjustments to supplementation, diet, or timing may be necessary based on individual responses. Consulting a healthcare professional ensures safe integration.

Lifestyle Enhancements

Complement berberine use with a balanced diet, incorporating whole foods while avoiding refined sugars. Regular exercise and stress management techniques work in harmony with berberine to stabilize glucose levels and enhance its efficacy.

Conclusion: Unlocking the Full Potential of Berberine for Blood Sugar Balance

The integration of berberine in blood sugar management has captured significant attention due to its scientifically supported benefits and versatility. When combined with complementary supplements such as berberine with Ceylon cinnamon, its glucose-regulating properties can be further enhanced to promote stable blood sugar levels. Ceylon cinnamon offers its own set of metabolic benefits that align synergistically with berberine, amplifying effectiveness by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.

Pairing berberine with other natural solutions, such as reishi mushroom blends and energy-supporting cordyceps mushrooms, provides additional holistic health benefits. Reishi mushrooms are recognized for their immune-modulating properties, while cordyceps are celebrated for sustaining energy and reducing oxidative stress, which can benefit those managing blood sugar irregularities. The inclusion of Lion’s Mane medicinal mushrooms further supports the nervous system by protecting nerve cells, a crucial aspect for those with long-term blood sugar imbalances.

Modern innovations, such as mushroom cocoa blends with Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps, offer convenient and enjoyable ways to incorporate these compounds into daily routines without sacrificing flavor or ease of use. Similarly, complementary solutions like glutathione nasal spray can support detoxification and oxidative balance, which indirectly benefits blood sugar regulation. Appetite control supplements like OEA (oleoylethanolamide) can also assist individuals striving for balanced eating habits, further supporting effective glycemic control.

By leveraging these integrated approaches, the potential of berberine to maintain balanced blood sugar can be significantly optimized, offering comprehensive support for metabolic wellness.