Can people with high blood sugar consume goji berries?
May 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, individuals with elevated blood glucose levels may consume goji berries in moderation, but intake must be strictly controlled. Patients with unstable glycemic control, obesity, or hyperlipidemia should exercise caution when consuming goji berries. Additionally, goji berries may enhance insulin sensitivity or the effects of antidiabetic medications; therefore, blood glucose levels must be closely monitored when used concomitantly to avoid the risk of hypoglycemia.
Generally, individuals with elevated blood glucose levels may consume goji berries in moderation, but strict control over intake is essential. A detailed analysis follows:
Goji berries are a traditional Chinese medicinal herb rich in β-carotene, Lycium barbarum polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Per 100 g of dried goji berries, carbohydrate content is approximately 64.1 g, with a caloric value of 258 kcal—classifying them as a high-energy-density food. Although most carbohydrates in goji berries exist as polysaccharides, which are digested and absorbed relatively slowly, excessive consumption can still lead to blood glucose fluctuations due to increased total caloric and carbohydrate intake. Therefore, individuals with elevated blood glucose must strictly limit their goji berry intake.
When consuming goji berries, it is advisable to break them into smaller pieces before adding them to congee, soups, or steeping them in water—avoiding direct chewing, which may result in excessive single-dose intake. Secondly, after consuming goji berries, one should correspondingly reduce intake of staple foods to maintain overall daily caloric balance. Additionally, pairing goji berries with high-fiber foods—such as oats or leafy green vegetables—or with high-quality protein sources—such as eggs or tofu—can slow carbohydrate absorption and mitigate postprandial blood glucose spikes.
However, caution is warranted for patients with unstable glycemic control, obesity, or hyperlipidemia. Moreover, goji berries may enhance insulin sensitivity or potentiate the effects of antidiabetic medications; thus, close blood glucose monitoring is essential when combining goji berries with such therapies to prevent hypoglycemia.
