Goji Berry

Goji Berry, also referred to as Lycium fruit, is native to Asia where it grows in most countries in the region. Recently, its cultivation has also increased in parts of Europe, especially in the Mediterranean region. This is because Goji Berry is now regarded as a functional food or superfood in many European nations and is loved for its health benefits.¹

The Goji Berry is an ellipsoid shape orange-red colour berry that is 1-2 cm long. It has a long history of use in Chinese cuisine and traditional remedies.¹

Goji Berries contain almost 46% carbohydrates, 16% dietary fibre, and 13% proteins. It also has 1.5% of fats. Many of its health benefits are due to its rich content of various bioactive compounds. It is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, essential minerals like Magnesium, Iron, Copper, Manganese and Zinc. Linoleic acids are one of the primary fatty acids in Goji Berries.²

Health Benefits of Goji Berries

Below are some of the well-known benefits of consuming Goji Berries:

Vision Protection

Goji Berries are rich in antioxidants, especially in carotenoids. They are especially rich in zeaxanthin, which accounts for more than 60% of its content of carotenoids. Studies show that carotenoids may help preserve vision, preventing age-related decline in visual acuity. Xanthines are especially good for preventing age-related macular degeneration. Additionally, these carotenoids are safer for long term consumption in comparison to high dose intake of Vitamin A.³ Additionally, Goji Berries also seem to help with diabetic retinopathy. This effect appears to be related to its ability to enhance PPAR-γ expression and thus lower local inflammation.⁴
Cholesterol Lowering

High cholesterol is one of the most relevant markers of risk of cardiovascular diseases. Reducing cholesterol without medications is much safer. Studies show that Goji Berries have lipid-lowering action. Regular consumption of these Berries may lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.⁵
Blood Glucose Lowering

Goji Berries seem to enhance PPAR-γ expression and thus reduce insulin resistance. In one study, Goji Berry polysaccharides could significantly reduce blood glucose levels after three months of supplementation. It also helped reduce bad cholesterol. Additionally, Goji Berries may help due to their antioxidant action.⁶
Anti-Tumour and Immunostimulatory

Goji Berries have anti-cancer, immune boosting and antioxidant action. All this is due to their content of carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and polysaccharides. Therefore, consuming Goji Berries appears to be a promising way of preventing high prevalent cancers like breast cancer.⁷
Brain Health

High content of polysaccharides along with carotenoids mean that Goji Berries may exert neuroprotective action. It may also help improve neurovascular health. Prolonged use of Goji Berries may also have a beneficial effect on mood and may help prevent anxiety. Researchers think that it they are also suitable for preventing menopause-related mood swings.⁸
Heart Health

Thanks to their high antioxidant content, lipid-lowering action, and ability to lower insulin resistance, Goji Berries are recognised as being good for heart health. Their consumption may help prevent vascular damage and reduce the risk of heart attack.¹

Side Effects of Goji Berries

Consumption of Goji Berries may cause some adverse effects, although incidence of this is rare. Some people are allergic to these berries. In addition, some compounds in Goji Berries may interact with medications, especially blood-thinning drugs. There were also report of rare liver toxicity when Goji Berries were consumed three times a day for a prolonged period. However, researchers think that liver reaction may be due to contamination rather than an actual effect of the Berries.¹

Properties

Anti-Inflammatory²
Antioxidant²
Anxiety⁸
Brain Function / Neuroprotective⁸
Cancer Prevention⁷
Cholesterol⁵
Diabetes / Blood Sugar⁶
Eye Health³^,⁴
Heart Support / Health¹^,⁵
High/Good Levels of Carbohydrates²
High/Good Levels of Copper²
High/Good Levels of Fibre²
High/Good Levels of Flavonoids²
High/Good Levels of Iron²
High/Good Levels of Magnesium²
High/Good Levels of Manganese²
High/Good Levels of Polyphenols²
High/Good Levels of Protein²
High/Good Levels of Vitamin C²
High/Good Levels of Vitamin E²
High/Good Levels of Zinc²
Libido & Sexual Performance²
Menopause²
Mood Stabilising²^,⁸

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