Goji berries protect against age-related macular degeneration
Consuming a regular serving of dried goji berries can prevent or at least delay the development of age-related macular degeneration, the most common cause of vision loss in old age.
In a recent study by researchers at the University of California, Davis, it was found that regular consumption of a small portion of dried goji berries in healthy, middle-aged people increases what is known as the optical density of macular pigment, which is considered a biomarker for the development of age-related macular degeneration ( AMD) applies. This is how goji berries could prevent or at least delay the loss of vision. The relevant study results were published in the English-language journal “Nutrients” released.
Vision loss due to age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in the elderly, affecting an estimated 170 million people worldwide. “AMD affects the central field of vision and can affect the ability to read or recognize faces,” said study author Glenn Yiu of the University of California, Davis press release.
What are goji berries and where do they come from?
Goji berries grow Bocksdorn– Shrubs, more specifically, Chinese wolfberry (Lycium chinense) and common wolfberry (Lycium barbarum). The dried berries are a common ingredient in Chinese soups and are also often used as herbal teas. They are also eaten as a snack. In Chinese medicine, goji berries are said to have beneficial effects on the eyes.
Increased density of protective pigments in eyes
The experts found in their study that in 13 healthy participants aged 45 to 65 who consumed 28 grams (about a handful) of goji berries five times a week for 90 days, the density of the protective pigments in their eyes increased. In contrast, no such increase was observed in 14 participants who took a commercially available dietary supplement for eye health during the same period.
Increase in lutein and zeaxanthin
In the group of participants who consumed the goji berries, the pigments lutein and zeaxanthin increased. These filter harmful blue light and provide antioxidant protection. Both help protect eyes during aging, the team says.
“Lutein and zeaxanthin are like sunscreens for the eyes,” explains study author Xiang Li. “The higher the levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in the retina, the better the protection. Our study found that even in healthy eyes, these optical pigments can be increased with a small daily serving of goji berries,” adds the expert.
Goji berries contain large amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin
In the new study, the experts examined the bioactive compounds contained in goji berries. They found that the berries contain large amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, which reduce the risk of AMD-related eye diseases.
Zeaxanthin is found in goji berries in a highly bioavailable form, Li explains. In other words, it’s in a form that’s easily absorbed by the digestive system and used by the body.
How is AMD usually treated?
Current treatment for mid-stage AMD is with the help of special dietary supplements called AREDS. These contain vitamins C, E, zinc, copper, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, the experts report. So far, no effective therapy is known for the early stages of AMD.
Causes of AMD?
When it comes to the causes of AMD, according to study author Yi, they are complex and multifactorial. They include a mix of genetic risks, age-related changes and various environmental factors such as smoking, diet and sun exposure, the expert said.
In the early stages of the disease, there are no symptoms. However, the professional adds that regular medical eye exams can detect AMD and other eye problems. If diagnosed early, countermeasures could then be taken with goji berries.
Goji berries usable for treatment?
“Our study shows that goji berries, which are a natural food source, can improve macular pigmentation in healthy participants beyond the intake of high-dose supplements. The next step in our research will be to study goji berries in patients with early-stage AMD,” Yi adds. (as)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the requirements of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Sources:
- Xiang Li, Roberta R. Holt, Carl L. Keen, Lawrence S. Morse, Glenn Yiu, Robert M. Hackman: Goji Berry Intake Increases Macular Pigment Optical Density in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Pilot Trial; in: Nutrients (veröffentlicht 09.12.2021), Nutrients
- University of California, Davis: Dried Goji Berries May Provide Protection Against Age-Related Vision Loss (veröffentlicht 13.01.2022), UCDavis
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
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