Goji’s Health Benefits Confirmed by Research
For 2,500 years, the goji berry has been thought to have medicinal properties—most notably, improved vision and kidney and liver function. This nutrient-dense, chewy red little berry has gained popularity recently for its incredible health benefits. Goji berry juices, bars and supplements have become wildly popular among health and nutrition aficionados. Now, a clinical trial confirms the goji berry health connection.
After consuming 120 mL of goji berry juice—equivalent to 150 g of fresh gojis—daily for two weeks, 50% of the subjects experienced significant increases in athletic performance, sleep quality, mental focus and calmness. In addition, nearly 60% of those drinking goji juice reported feelings of good health, contentment, and happiness. (Amagase H, Nance D. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2008, 14(4): 403-412. DOI: 10.1089/acm.2008.0004.)
More research on these ancient berries is needed to confirm their health benefits; however, according to a multidisciplinary, international group of experts meeting at the 2007 International Berry Health Benefits Symposium, all berries contain vitamins, minerals and fiber and their various biological properties are largely related to their high levels and wide diversity of phytochemicals. (Seeram NP. J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Feb 13;56(3):627-9.)
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: The nutrient-dense goji berry has quite a reputation for promoting health and vitality. And now, research is emerging which confirms the health benefits goji berries have been known to provide for thousands of years.
