The wolfberry, commercially called the goji berry, is native to the Himalayan mountains of Tibet and Mongolia. This red berry is about the size of a grape. Since the early 21st century in the United States, the goji berry has gained rapidly growing attention for its superior nutrient value and antioxidant content. The rapid commercial development extending from this "superfruit" has led to a profusion of consumer products, including supplements, such as goji juice. Goji berries and juice are being sold as health food products and marketed in the media as wonder products for well-being and anti-aging.
Basic Nutrient Facts
Goji berries are nutritious, low in calories, high in fiber and high in both vitamins C and A. Goji juice, depending on the manufacturer and brand, may be mixed with other juices and/or preservatives. The most natural goji juice offers the highest levels of actual goji. The essential fatty acids that are often mentioned in the marketing of these berries are contained in the seed of the berry, which is not included in the juice. Nutrition facts vary as a result; however, 1 fluid oz. of goji juice offers approximately 20 calories, 5 g carbohydrates (4 g sugar or 1 tsp.) and less than 1 g dietary fiber, and is a good source of vitamin C, providing about 15 mg, or 25 percent of the Recommended Daily Value (DV) for this nutrient. Vitamin C is important for supporting the immune system, forming collagen and enhancing iron absorption.
General Effects of Goji Juice
A research study published in 2008 in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" investigated the general effects of orally consumed goji berry (Lycium barbarum,) as a standardized juice in healthy adults for 14 days. Participants were given a questionnaire with a subjective rating system (0-5) to report feelings of well-being, gastrointestinal, psychological, musculoskeletal and cardiovascular complaints and/or adverse effects. Researchers measured weight, body mass index (BMI) and other such anthropometrics before and after participants consumed 120 mL of goji juice or a placebo solution. Interestingly, findings clearly showed that daily consumption of goji juice over two weeks increased feelings of general well-being, and improved neurologic/psychologic performance as well as gastrointestinal function. Further research is necessary to confirm the beneficial effects of goji juice on human health.
Phytochemical Benefits
Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, particularly the carotenoids beta-carotene and zeaxanthin. According to the American Cancer Institute, the antioxidants vitamins C and E, as well as the carotenoids, help prevent chemical reactions with oxygen from damaging cells in the human body. Cellular damage from oxidation may play a key role in the development of cancer, thus antioxidants may help prevent cancer. Thus far, epidemiological studies suggest that individuals who consume more vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants may have a lower risk for some types of cancer.
References
- Goji Juice Nutrition Facts
- "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical study of the general effects of a standardized Lycium barbarum (Goji) Juice, GoChi; H. Amagase and D.M. Nance; May 2008
- American Cancer Society: FAQs on Nutrition and Physical Activity
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