The goji berry is native to Asia, and Asians have used this brightly colored fruit as a medicinal herb and nutritional source for over 2,000 years.
Fans have recently brought goji berries to the rest of the world with promises of many possible health benefits. These arguments are being studied by modern science, and several have been confirmed by scholars.
Helps manage blood sugar
Goji berries can be effective in regulating sugar release into the blood. A 2015 study showed goji berries regulating insulin and blood glucose levels.
In the same study, goji berries were related to elevated HDL levels in people with type 2 diabetes. HDL is referred to as good cholesterol.
Supports skin health
Goji berries contain beta-carotene, an essential plant phytochemicals. Beta-carotene is well known for encouraging healthy skin.
Beta-carotene is often found in skin care products used to manage the effects of the sun, reduce skin irritation, improve skin health, and manage the effect of aging.
One research in mice showed that it provided them enough antioxidants to defend against UV light damage and skin disorders when they drank 5 per cent goji juice.
Protects from cancer
Critical for the fight against cancer cells are high levels of antioxidants, including vitamin C, zeaxanthin, and carotenoids. Antioxidants delay the development of cancers, minimize inflammation, and help expel toxic compounds from the body.
Study on mice, published in the journal Drug Design, Development and Therapy shows that goji berries can inhibit tumor growth and improve cancer treatment efficacy.
Supports the immune system
Goji berries contain healthy antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for their ability to combat toxic free radicals and inflammation and for their immune-boosting properties.
Similar to other berries, including blueberries and raspberries, goji berries contain significant quantities of vitamins A and C, which are vital to developing immunity and avoiding disease from the common cold to certain types of cancer.
Protects the eyes
Goji berries are believed to fight against eye disorders due to aging. They can help with vision, as they contain high levels of healthy antioxidants, especially zeaxanthin.
The same antioxidants may also avoid free radical damage, UV light, and oxidative stress.
One research published in the journal Optometry and Vision Science of the American Academy of Optometry showed that seniors who consumed goji berry juice for 90 days dramatically raised their levels of zeaxanthin and other antioxidants.
Second research published in the journal Drug Design, Development and Therapy indicates that goji berries shield the eye from the glaucoma-causing ganglion cells, a disease that can lead to vision loss.
While goji berries are pricey, the health benefits are worth the cost. Often, prices depend on whether the commodity is organic, natural, or processed.
