Goji Berry (Wolfberry)

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A great amount of research has now firmly established that the dietary intake of berry fruits has a positive and profound impact on human health and disease. Recently, there has also been a surge in the consumption of an exotic “berry-type” fruit such as goji berry ( Lycium barbarum; also known as wolfberry).

Many claim that Himalayan Goji berry contains anti-ageing properties, promotes longevity, boosts the immune system. In addition, some believe that Goji beeries alone will cause you to lose a lot of weight!

In a research study it was examined the general effects of the orally consumed gojiberry, Lycium barbarum, as a standardized juice (GoChi; FreeLife International LLC, Phoenix, AZ) to healthy adults for 14 days.

Significant differences between day 1 and day 15 were found when using Goji berries:

• Increased ratings for energy level
• Athletic performance
• Quality of sleep
• Ease of awakening
• Ability to focus on activities
• Mental acuity
• Calmness
• Feelings of health, contentment, and happiness.

Goji Berry Benefits

Goji also significantly reduced fatigue and stress, and improved regularity of gastrointestinal function.

The results clearly indicate that daily consumption of GoChi for 14 days increases:

• Subjective feelings of general well-being
• Improves neurologic/psychologic performance
• Improves gastrointestinal functions

In addition, it is claimed that Lycium barbarum (goji) and active compounds, Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP), have a high in vitro antioxidant score as determined by simple chemical reaction methods. Therefore, their in vivo antioxidant effects in humans have been xamined. Present study examined the hypothesis that the antioxidant effects of GoChi result from its ability to enhance endogenous antioxidant factors.

In a 30-day study of healthy adults aged 55 to 72 years it was notices that Goji increased antioxidant efficacies in humans by stimulating endogenous factors and suggest that continued use beyond 30 days might help prevent or reduce free radical-related conditions.

As great as the goji berries are, it is not the sole solution to diet and weight loss. However they can be helpful when used in combination with a good diet and exercise plan. Nevertheless, Goji berries contain essential amino acids and nutrients which will definitely help you in improving your overall well being.
Furthermore, researchers have shown that in Tibet only there are 41 kinds of goji berry. But the berry, which has most of the nutritional benefit on the human body is the original goji fruit from the Himalayas.

Source:

• FreeLife International, LLC, Phoenix, AZ 85040, USA. Amagase H, Nance DM. J Altern Complement Med. 2008 May;14(4):403-12.
• FreeLife International, LLC, Phoenix, AZ 85040, USA Amagase H, Sun B, Borek C. Nutr Res. 2009 Jan;29(1):19-25. PMID: 19185773 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]