Benefits of Goji Berry Consumption Against AMD

Article: Dried Goji Berries May Provide Protection Against Age-Related Vision Loss
Source: University of California, Davis
Published: January 13, 2022

Goji berries are rich in antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in individuals 55 years of age or older. A recent randomized trial involving 27 participants found that regular consumption of goji berries (28 grams, or roughly one handful) five times per week for 90 days increased the density of macular xanthophyll pigments lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect against age-related decline in ocular health by filtering harmful light and serving as antioxidants. This was compared to participants who consumed a commercial supplement for eye health over the same time period, who did not show an increase in macular pigment density. Doctoral candidate and lead author of the study compares lutein and zeaxanthin to the "sunscreen for your eyes" and recounts her interest in studying the physiological ocular health effects of goji berries from her own cultural background. The fruit of Lycium chinense  and Lycium barbarum, two species of shrubby bushes found in northwest China, dried goji berries can be snacked on like raisins and are popular ingredients in herbal teas. Her curiosity led to the finding that the form of zeaxanthin in goji berries is a highly bioavailable form, meaning it is readily absorbed in the digestive system so the body can use it. Although dietary vitamins such as the AREDS2 formulation are recommended for people with an intermediate stage of AMD, there is currently no therapy for early stages. This pilot study is limited by its small size, and the authors hope to expand upon the research. Senior researcher of the project states, "Our study shows goji berries, which are a natural food source, can improve macular pigments of healthy participants beyond taking high-dose nutritional supplements...The next step for our research will be to examine goji berries in patients with early-stage AMD."

My rating of this study: ⭐🌸

Li X, Holt RR, Keen CL, et al. "Goji Berry Intake Increases Macular Pigment Optical Density in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Pilot Trial." Nutrients.  13(12):4409. 9 December 2021. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13124409