Nutritional Value of Goji Berries

The goji berry is a fruit that is said to be rich in nutrients and antioxidants. It has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to first century China. Advocates tout the Goji berry as having many health benefits, and it has become popular within the United States as a juice and nutritional aid. However, according to an article published at Peace Heath, many medical professionals dispute the value of the Goji berry and the healing properties of its nutrients.

History

• The Goji plant is one of a group of 40 related plant species. The specific Goji plant is said to have the most nutritional value is the Lycium Eleagnus Barbarum, which is native to the Himalayan Mountains, although Goji plants grow throughout Tibet and the far east. The nutritional value and medicinal benefits of the Goji plant were extolled in early Chinese medicine, where the berry was believed to increase longevity, aid in circulation, offer protection to the liver, improve eyesight and immune function, and increase sperm production.

Polysaccharides

• Among other nutrients, Goji berries have a high level of polysaccharides. When test animals were given polysaccharides in high doses, the polysaccharides lowered glucose and insulin levels, reduced the amount of trigyclerides, raised antioxidant levels, lowered cholesterol, protected the DNA and slowed the growth of cancer cells, prevented fatigue, improved sexual performance and boosted the animal's immune system. However, the test animals were given such large amounts of polysaccharides that it would be very difficult to replicate that level in humans. No human studies have been done on the effects of polysaccharides.

Zeaxanthin

• Another important nutrient found in Goji berries is Zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid, which means it promotes immune health, concentrates in the eye, and may have beneficial effects on the retina. Zeaxanthin may also help prevent liver damage. High doses of Zeaxanthin have been proven to raise Zeaxanthin levels in both humans and monkeys. However, as of 2009, the extent to which such claims, regarding eye and liver benefits, are true have not been proven.

Effects

• According to the National Library for Biotechnology, the goji berry has some positive influence on human health. However, the berry is classified among blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, and blueberries, and is not seen to offer any additional health or nutritional benefits as these other berries.

Side Effects

• There is little published data on potential side effects of Goji berries. However, according to the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Washington, goji berries can react adversely with the anticoagulant medication warfarin, and can cause an increased tendency to bleed. This possible side effect is based on one reported case of a patient taking warfarin, while also consuming three to four glasses of goji berry juice on a daily basis.