Goji Berries Health Benefits

Goji berries are tiny red fruits packed with antioxidants and powerful medicinal properties. They're not only great for adding a pop of color to your plate but also delicious and full of flavor. These berries are often sold powdered or dried. Plus, they're added to many supplements and juice blends. Also called wolfberries, goji berries, Lycium barbarum, are native to Asia. Known for their sweet, slightly sour flavor and vibrant red hue, they've been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. In fact, they're said to slow signs of aging, maintain eye health, and strengthen your liver, kidneys, and lungs. Here are 7 possible benefits of the goji berry with the scientific evidence supporting them. Number 1. Protects the eyes. Goji berries are believed to protect against age-related eye diseases. Goji berries can help vision because they contain high levels of healthy antioxidants, especially zeaxanthin. The same antioxidants can also stop damage from UV light. Free radicals. Oxidative stress. Number 2. Provides immune system support. Goji berries contain healthy antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for their immune-boosting qualities and their ability to fight harmful free radicals and inflammation. Goji berries contain large amounts of vitamins A and C, similar to other berries, including blueberries and raspberries. Vitamins A and C are vital for building immunity and preventing illnesses, ranging from the common cold to cancer. Number 3. Protects against cancer. High levels of antioxidants, including vitamin C, zeaxanthin, and carotenoids, are responsible for fighting cancer cells. Antioxidants slow tumor growth, reduce inflammation, and help to remove harmful substances from the body. Number 4. Promotes healthy skin. Goji berries contain beta carotene, which is an essential plant phytochemical. Beta carotene is known for its ability to promote healthy skin. Beta carotene is an ingredient used in skin creams to improve skin health, reduce skin irritation, manage the effects of the sun, manage the impact of aging. Number 5. Stabilizes blood sugar. Goji berries may be helpful in controlling the release of sugar into the blood. Research from 2015 shows that goji berries balance insulin and glucose levels in the blood. The same study linked goji berries to increased HDL levels in people with type 2 diabetes. HDL is known as good cholesterol. Number 6. Improves depression, anxiety, and sleep. A human study in the United States found drinking goji berry juice could improve energy, mood, and digestive health. The same study also showed improved quality of sleep in those who consumed the goji berry juice, and none experienced negative effects related to drinking the juice. Number 7. Prevents liver damage. Goji berries have been used to treat liver disease in traditional Chinese medicine. Research on human liver cancer cells has also found the goji berry can inhibit tumor growth. Who should avoid goji berries? Goji berries may interact with some medications, including blood thinners, blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs. People taking these medications should talk to their doctor before adding goji berries to their diet. The takeaway. Fresh and dry goji berries do not usually cause any side effects or adverse reactions in healthy people. Goji berry supplements have been shown to be safe for most people when consumed for up to 3 months, with only rare side effects, such as allergic reactions and sensitivity to sunlight. It is safe for most people to eat goji berries in moderation. People considering using goji berry supplements should check with their doctor first.