The doctor replied: Can diabetics eat goji berries?

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively. People with diabetes often need to be mindful of their diet and make sure to eat foods that won’t spike their blood sugar levels. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the health benefits of traditional Chinese herbs, such as goji berries (also known as wolfberries) for people with diabetes. So, can people with diabetes eat goji berries?

Goji berries are a type of dried fruit that has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of health conditions. They are often touted as a superfood, as they are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Goji berries are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial for people with diabetes, as inflammation is linked to insulin resistance.

While goji berries are generally considered safe for people with diabetes to consume, it’s important to keep in mind that they do contain sugar. One ounce (28 grams) of dried goji berries contains about 10 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to about 2.5 teaspoons. This means that people with diabetes should consume goji berries in moderation and be mindful of their overall sugar intake.

One study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that goji berries may help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The study, which was conducted on rats, found that goji berry extract helped to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. However, more research is needed to determine whether these findings can be replicated in humans.

In addition to their potential blood sugar-lowering effects, goji berries have other health benefits that may be of interest to people with diabetes. For example, they are rich in fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and improve gut health. They also contain high levels of vitamin C, which can help to boost the immune system.

When incorporating goji berries into your diet, it’s important to keep in mind that they are not a substitute for other diabetes treatments, such as insulin or medication. It’s also important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before adding goji berries to your diet, as they may interact with certain medications or have other health implications.

In summary, people with diabetes can eat goji berries in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While goji berries may have potential blood sugar-lowering effects and other health benefits, they should not be used as a substitute for other diabetes treatments. As always, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or treatment plan.

Some people may also wonder if goji berries can be consumed in different forms, such as goji juice or supplements. While these products may be marketed as a convenient way to consume goji berries, it’s important to be aware that they may contain added sugars or other ingredients that can impact blood sugar levels. Additionally, supplements may not be regulated by the FDA, so it’s important to do your research and only purchase from reputable sources.

If you do decide to incorporate goji berries into your diet, there are many ways to enjoy them. They can be eaten as a snack on their own, added to smoothies or oatmeal, or used in recipes for baked goods. Goji berries can also be found in many health food stores and online retailers.

It’s worth noting that while goji berries may offer some potential health benefits for people with diabetes, they should not be considered a cure or treatment for the condition. It’s important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, get regular exercise, and work with your healthcare provider to manage your diabetes effectively.

In conclusion, people with diabetes can eat goji berries in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Goji berries have potential health benefits, including potential blood sugar-lowering effects, but they should not be used as a substitute for other diabetes treatments. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or treatment plan, and to consume goji berries in moderation to avoid spiking blood sugar levels.