Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) consumption is related with decrease in serum lipids and body fat in healthy individuals

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of goji berry consumption on serum lipids and body fat. There were 70 healthy participants (control group: n = 35; study group: n = 35). For 8 weeks, the study group consumed goji berry (20 g/day), while the control group received no intervention. Every 15 days, 3 day records of food consumption and physical activity were obtained. At the beginning and the end of the study, measurements were obtained for total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). The intervention group showed post-intervention decreases in body weight, body fat, waist circumference, and hip circumference (p < 0.05). This group also showed decreases in total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, triglyceride, and LDL/HDL in intra-comparisons (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the group had lower LDL and LDL/HDL and higher mean HDL than the control group (p < 0.001). Goji berry could thus improve blood-lipid profiles and decrease body weight and fat. Future studies on long-term effects and mechanisms may reveal more information about potential health benefits.