How Goji Berries Affect Our Body Functions

Goji berries takers might be wondering about the exact mechanism how the fruit carry out its health benefits on their body as seen on the varied improvements they experience. It may take a couple of thick books to explain the physiology of our body and how it reacts to certain nutrients, which on the other hand can be explained by Biochemistry or Pharmacology books. And so to give us a little insight on the various mechanisms that take place in our body while we take goji berries, here are some explanations why such improvements occur:

Increasing Energy

The goji berry is an “adaptogen”, meaning it’s a substance that entails a combination of therapeutic actions. Any adaptogen invigorates and strengthens the system while it helps the body to deal with stress without breaking down. Moreover, it supports the healthy function of the adrenal glands, which tend to get burnt out in times of stress. That’s why in Asia it’s believed to harmonize functions of the entire body, resulting to enhanced stamina, strength, and energy.

Improving Vision

The fruit contains two key nutrients necessary for good vision: zeaxanthin and lutein. These compounds are concentrated at the center of retina and protect the eyes from the age-related loss of sight like macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. These compounds also protect the eye from free radicals that attack it and cause damage.  Such research in China showed animals that had eaten goji berries had reduced free radical damage of retina.

Enhancing Libido and Sexual Function

One effect of aging is reduced sexual function. It can be associated with a decrease in the production of testosterone in both men and women. This decrease in production is counteracted by goji berries by stimulating the pituitary gland to produce hGH (Human Growth Hormone). In Asia, it’s really regarded as a strong sexual tonic; although in general, it acts to improve overall stamina, mood and well being. It also decreases stress. All these benefits are definitely conducive to a healthy sex life.

Controlling Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

Two key factors of heart disease are oxidized cholesterol and elevated blood pressure. Cholesterol becomes dangerous when it oxidizes as a result of free radicals and the oxidized blood fats attach to artery walls as plaques. On the other hand, our body has a defense system that uses an enzyme called superoxide dismutase (SOD). SOD produces antioxidants to prevent cholesterol from oxidizing, but SOD levels also decline through age. A Chinese research showed that goji berries can actually increase the production of SOD in our body, thus reducing oxidation of cholesterol. Moreover, goji berries naturally contain other antioxidants that help in decreasing cholesterol oxidation and control our blood pressure.

Improving Sleep

Goji berries are a rich source of nutrients that are important for a sound and healthy sleep. First is Thiamin or Vitamin B1. It’s found in the hulls of grains, but is missing from diets that mostly contain refined grains. It also improves mood, alleviate depression and increase energy levels. These factors actually aid us in having a good night sleep. Next is magnesium, which is a mineral that reduces the time it takes to make us fall asleep and improves the quality of our sleep.

This article is based on TLC Cooking: How Goji Berries Work