Goji Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide
Goji berries are rich in antioxidants and support eye health, immune function, and skin health.
Goji berries (Lycium barbarum), also known as wolfberries, are small red fruits native to Asia, celebrated for their nutrient density and antioxidant properties. They have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to promote vitality and longevity.
Goji berries are rich in carotenoids, polysaccharides, and essential amino acids, which may support immune function, eye health, and cellular protection. They are consumed dried, in juices, or as concentrated extracts in supplements.
Commonly taken for energy, eye health, and immune support, Goji berries are backed by some promising studies, though more robust human trials are needed to confirm many of their traditional health claims.
Other names & forms of Goji supplement : lycium barbarum, wolfberry, goji berry, goji berries, goji extract
Benefits
Whether for immune support or healthy aging, goji berries deliver a variety of potential benefits:
- They may help preserve eye function and protect against age-related vision decline, supporting Eye Health.
- Goji is often used to promote healthy aging and vitality, fitting within the domain of Anti-Aging.
- This berry may help strengthen immune response, which is central to Immunity.
- It is traditionally believed to improve mood and energy levels, related to Nervous System & Stress Relief and Energy & Metabolism.
Dosage
Dosage recommendations for Goji supplement should be followed according to personal health goals:
- Antioxidant and eye health: 500–1000 mg/day of Goji berry extract.
- Immune and energy support: 2–3 grams/day of dried berries or powder, often in smoothies or tea.
- Traditional use: 20–30 berries/day (~5 grams) as a snack or decoction.
- Recommendation: Suitable for daily consumption in moderate doses.
Side Effects
Goji berries are loaded with antioxidants, but in some people, they can trigger mild discomfort. Watch for:
- Mild digestive upset—bloating or loose stools—especially when eaten in large quantities
- Allergic reactions—rash, itching, or swelling—in individuals sensitive to nightshade family plants
- Headache or dizziness if consumed in excess
- Possible changes in blood sugar—monitor if diabetic
- Rare eye irritation when handling dried berries (dust can be irritating)
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Blood thinners: Goji’s polysaccharides and flavonoids may potentiate the effects of warfarin or supplements like Garlic, raising bleeding risk.
- Diabetes medications: Goji may lower blood glucose; when combined with insulin or Cinnamon, monitor levels to prevent hypoglycemia.
- Antihypertensive drugs: Its vasodilatory effects can add to ACE inhibitors or L-Arginine, risking hypotension.
- Immune-modulating therapies: Goji stimulates immunity; avoid stacking with immunosuppressants or herbs like Echinacea without medical advice.
Precautions
Before you snack on Goji, confirm that you’re not in one of these precautionary groups. If you are, check with a healthcare professional:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited research on high-dose intake; stick to moderate food amounts
- Individuals on blood pressure medications: Goji may affect blood pressure; monitor levels closely
- People taking anticoagulants: Contains vitamin K; may interfere with blood-thinning therapy
- Diabetics on glucose-lowering drugs: Can reduce blood sugar; adjust medication under supervision
- Those with auto-immune conditions: Potential to stimulate immune response; discuss before use
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Goji benefits:
A 2009 pilot RCT in 60 adults with age-related macular degeneration found 120 mL/day goji berry juice for 90 days improved antioxidant capacity (ORAC +30%; P < 0.01) and self-reported visual acuity yet showed no objective change in visual field tests.
A 2014 double-blind trial in 52 overweight adults reported that 14 g/day goji berry powder for 14 days reduced postprandial glucose rise by 18% versus placebo (P < 0.05), suggesting glycemic benefits.
A 2021 RCT of 45 athletes showed that 28 days of 150 mL/day goji juice did not significantly alter markers of oxidative stress or inflammation after exhaustive exercise versus control.
A 2010 randomized study in 34 adults found 30 g/day goji berries for 8 weeks did not significantly affect weight, BMI, or lipid profiles compared to an isocaloric control snack.
This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.
Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Goji supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.