What Are the Benefits of Goji Berries?

Goji berries are considered a superfood because they are very high in vitamins A and C, essential amino acids, and antioxidants

Goji berries are considered a superfood because they are very high in vitamins A and C, essential amino acids, and antioxidants. These berries contain complex carbohydrates and provide a significant boost to the immune system, promoting the normal growth of tissues and healing cell damage caused by free radicals.

Goji berry, also called wolfberry, is bright orange or red and has a sweet and slightly sour taste. Goji berries are native to China, Mongolia, and the Tibetan Himalayas. They have been used in Chinese traditional medicine for many years..

These berries are often found in dried forms because by the time they get distributed around the world, fresh berries may get damaged.

Although goji berries are widely promoted for their health benefits, most claims are yet to be backed by large-scale clinical studies.

12 health benefits of goji berries

1. Improves immunity

Goji berries are rich in vitamins A and C, which naturally improve immunity and protect the body from illness.

Studies have shown that goji berry juice and supplements may increase levels of immune cells, improve immune function response, and promote a general feeling of well-being in older individuals.

2. Lowers the risk of heart disease

Polysaccharides in goji berries that come from Lycium barbarum play a prominent role in lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol levels while improving good cholesterol levels. This reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and may help prevent heart attacks.

3. Anti-aging effects

Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, such as betaine, carotene, zeaxanthin, and ascorbic acid, which prevent free radical damage and reduce oxidative stress. This improves the overall health and functionality of the body’s cells.

4. Improves eyesight

Goji berries contain essential nutrients lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for the retina. These components get concentrated in the macula (sensitive part of the retina) and block blue light from reaching other underlying structures in the retina. They also reduce the risk of light-induced oxidative damage, which may lead to age-related macular degeneration. A study done on 150 older adults for 90 days showed that consuming goji berries improved their vision.

5. Boosts hair health

Goji berries contain vitamin C, which increases the absorption of iron and promotes hair growth. Consuming the berries and washing the hair with the berry juice can help strengthen the scalp and prevent excessive hair loss.

6. Boosts skin health

Antioxidants and fatty acids, especially palmitic, oleic, and stearic, hydrate the skin, efficiently regenerate cells, and can help keep skin even and soft. Other vitamins, minerals, and nutrients help reduce acne and promote collagen production.

7. Prevents high blood sugar

Polysaccharides have been found to be effective in reducing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Goji berries may improve sugar tolerance and reduce insulin resistance. However, these berries should not be used as a substitute for diabetic medications.

8. Lowers cancer risk

Goji berries are rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants, so they have been used in traditional Chinese medicine against cancer. Goji berries contain carotenoids that effectively inhibit cancer cells, although more scientific studies are needed to back this claim.

9. Promotes wound healing

Antioxidants such as vitamin C promote collagen production, which is crucial for the body to be able to heal from injuries and keep skin elastic.

10. Weight loss

A study found that drinking goji berry juice for 2 weeks increased metabolism and reduced waist size in overweight people. Chromium in goji berries helps maintain good muscle mass, especially while losing weight.

11. Boosts mood

Goji berries contain valproic acid which acts as a mood stabilizer, regulating emotions and decreasing anxiety or depression.

12. Boosts fertility

Goji berries have been proven to improve both male and female fertility because they improve hormonal functions. Due to these properties, they have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to improve fertility.

QUESTION

According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.”
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Are there side effects to eating goji berries?

Goji berries do not pose any severe side effects and are considered safe to consume. However, goji berries may interfere with certain medications (warfarin, a blood thinner) and diabetes medications (which reduce blood sugar levels). People who are on such medications should consult with their doctor before consuming goji berries.

Some people may develop allergies to goji berries and end up having anaphylactic reactions, which could be potentially fatal. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice an allergic reaction.