Goji Juice Benefits

Goji berries belong to the large family of berries called Lycium and are commonly known as wolfberry, bastard jasmine, Goji, Gou qi zi, lycium fruit, box thorn, matrimony vine, tea tree, etc. in different parts of the world. They are found throughout Asia, America and Europe. Goji berries are shriveled red berries that bear semblance to resins. Goji juice was first introduced to the US via the multi-level, pyramid and other types of marketing. It is believed to contain polysaccharides, that fortify the immune system of the body. The health benefits of goji juice are many and have given them the name 'super food'. Today, several companies claim to be selling pure Goji juice. However, since there is no concrete proof regarding Goji juice benefits, this berry has plunged its way into the controversial arena.

Benefits of Goji Juice

Goji berry juice squeezed from fresh berries exhibit an orange color, however, the reconstituted juices sold by marketers normally have coffee color with a prune-like flavor. This is because of these companies masking the strange taste of goji berry juice with a sweetener or apple juice. According to some experts in the medical and clinical field, goji berries are one of the healthiest foods on Earth. Most of the juice products available today in the market, have the peel, pulp and seed filtered out, giving a clear liquid at the end. However, this process also conduces to leaving out goji berries nutritional value. Let's find out about the different health benefits of goji juice consumption.

Reduces Aging Symptoms
The unique polysaccharide content in goji berries stimulate the pituitary glands to increase the secretion of Human Growth Hormone (HGH or youth hormone), which has the ability to slow down or even reverse some of the symptoms of aging. HGH reduces body fat, improves memory, accelerates healing, a youthful appearance and restored libido. Moreover, the antioxidants present in these berries destroy free radicals, which is why they are powerful allies in fighting aging and cancer.

Protects DNA
DNA, a very important nucleic acid containing genetic instructions that form the blue prints for all traits inherited from ancestors. These DNA molecules when exposed to free radicals, pollutants, chemicals, etc. get damaged, thereby conducing to genetic mutations, cancer and even death cases. The polysaccharides and betaine present in goji berries helps restore and repair damaged DNA.

Improves Immune System Response
Research reveals that goji polysaccharides enhance and balance activities of all immune cells, support inflammatory process, etc. Thus, goji berries are believed to have the ability to command and control the body's defense systems, thereby regulating the immune system response.

Alleviates Stress and Brightens Spirit
Goji berries are believed to provide people with energy reserves required to cope with mental or physical stress. Moreover, they are also known as 'happy berry' in Asia, due to the cheerfulness they impart to the person who has consumed them.

Fights Joint Problems and Inflammation
During acute and chronic inflammation, the body is seen to encounter a surge of free radical production like superoxide. The body's superoxide dismutase enzyme defense system finds it difficult to remove the large levels of superoxide, thereby resulting in an excess amount of superoxide in the body. This excess conduces to pain and damage in tissues of the joints. Goji berries help restore the balance of anti-inflammatory superoxide dismutase enzyme in the body.

Besides the above mentioned benefits, this juice is also known to enhance libido and sexual function, combat fatigue, improve digestion, kidney and heart health. Though, most marketing companies claim that goji juice helps heal a variety of ailments, it is important to note that goji juice is no magic potion. Nevertheless, if your ailment has been caused due to a deficiency, then consuming goji berries can furnish you with the necessary nutrients. Health benefits of goji juice make it a nutritious drink, however, it cannot replace fruits and vegetables in your daily diet!