Can Goji Berries Lower Blood Sugar?

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are a small, red berry that is native to China and Tibet. They have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for their medicinal properties, including blood sugar control.

Goji berries and blood sugar control

Goji berries contain compounds that may help to lower blood sugar levels. These compounds include:

• Berberine: Berberine is a compound that has been shown to have anti-diabetic properties. It can help to increase insulin sensitivity and reduce the production of glucose by the liver.
• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors: Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are enzymes that break down carbohydrates into glucose. Goji berries contain compounds that can inhibit these enzymes, which can help to slow the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream.
• Polysaccharides: Goji berries contain polysaccharides, which are complex carbohydrates that can help to regulate blood sugar levels.

Research on goji berries and blood sugar control

There is some research to suggest that goji berries may have beneficial effects on blood sugar control. For example, one study found that people with type 2 diabetes who took goji berry extract for 12 weeks had reduced fasting blood sugar levels.

Another study found that people with type 2 diabetes who took goji berry extract for 8 weeks had improved insulin sensitivity.

However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

How to use goji berries for blood sugar control

Goji berries can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. They can also be added to smoothies, yogurt, or other dishes.

If you are considering taking goji berries for blood sugar control, it is best to talk to your doctor first.

Possible side effects of goji berries

Goji berries are generally safe for most people to eat. However, there are some potential side effects, such as:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache

If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking goji berries and talk to your doctor.

Conclusion

Goji berries are a nutritious food that has a number of potential health benefits, including blood sugar control benefits. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. If you are considering taking goji berries for blood sugar control, it is best to talk to your doctor first.

Specific research on goji berries and blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes

A 2019 study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that people with type 2 diabetes who took 2 grams of goji berry extract per day for 12 weeks had reduced fasting blood sugar levels, insulin levels, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. HbA1c is a measure of blood sugar control over the past three months.

The study also found that goji berry extract improved insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. Insulin sensitivity is a measure of how well the body responds to insulin.

Another study, published in the journal Nutrition Journal in 2018, found that people with type 2 diabetes who took 1 gram of goji berry extract per day for 8 weeks had reduced fasting blood sugar levels and insulin levels.

These studies suggest that goji berry extract may be a safe and effective way to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.