The Health Benefits...

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Of Goji Berries

There’s been more interest as of late in a colorful berry that grows on an evergreen shrub in parts of China and Tibet. The bright red berries known as goji berries or wolfberries are being studied for possible health benefits and for good reason. These berries are rich in antioxidants, particularly the carotenoids which have been shown to prevent age related visual problems. Now, you can add increased energy level to the list of potential benefits this modest berry seems to offer. A study recently published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine appears to support the health benefits of goji berries both for increasing energy levels and giving a greater sense of overall well being.

This latest study demonstrating the health benefits of goji berries was performed on thirty-five healthy adults. The group consumed either goji berry juice or placebo for a period of two weeks. The placebo was similar in color and taste to goji berry juice and neither group knew which juice they were receiving. At the end of the two week period, the participants were given questionnaires to assess the effects of goji berry juice on their general level of functioning.

Interestingly the group who received the goji berry juice showed significant differences in their reported general sense of well being and their energy levels. They not only described experiencing higher energy levels, but also reported a greater sense of happiness, improved sleep quality, an enhanced sense of calm, and increased athletic performance. The researchers suggest that this study clearly shows the health benefits of goji berries on energy level and general sense of well being. In addition, the goji berry juice group also reported fewer menstrual cramps and an improvement in sexual performance.

This particular study looking at goji berry health benefits is the first one carried out outside of China looking at the general health effects of consuming this berry in juice form. Could the goji berry be an effective mood enhancer or even a treatment for depression? While this is a small study, it showed encouraging results. Hopefully, larger studies will be conducted to further verify and define the health benefits of goji berries and whether they might be an all natural treatment for certain mood disorders.

Until then, consuming goji berry juice on a daily basis is most likely an overall health option, although a bit expensive. A thirty-two ounce bottle of goji berry juice can run as much as thirty-five dollars. And the taste? Most people describe this juice as being intermediate in flavor between a cherry and a cranberry. Give this juice a try and if you enjoy the flavor and can afford it, why not add it to your diet? It might just give your energy level an all-natural boost.


By Dr. Kristie

[Dr. ZZ]

Ah yes! No wonder the Chinese call goji the "happy berry"! I was spoiled in Las Vegas where I used to buy dried goji in Chinatown for $5.50 per pound. Now, even online, the least expensive goji I find are $12.00 per pound; local health food stores special order them for $15.00 per pound. Does anyone know of a local or online source for goji berries at a better price?