Skip the Eye Supplements and Try Goji Berries! A Complete Guide to Why They're Great for Dry Eyes and Vision Protection

Harvesting goji berries


Hello.
Are your eyes feeling dry and blurry today from staring at smartphone and computer screens? The eyes of modern people rarely get a break. The blue light from our smartphones, which we often hold until the moment we fall asleep, is rapidly accelerating our eyes' aging process. That's why today, I want to talk about a gift from nature for our precious eyes: the 'red jewel,' Goji Berry.


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"Today's wisest choice for your eyes: the story of the red jewel, Goji Berry."

Goji Berry: What are its benefits for eye health?

Goji Berry (known as 'Gugija' in Korea) has long been said to 'lighten the body, prevent aging, and brighten the eyes if consumed for a long time.' Modern scientific research is continuously uncovering its benefits. Its remarkable effectiveness, especially for eye health, is thanks to its key components.

[Summary of Benefits]

  • Prevents macular degeneration and protects vision (Rich in Lutein and Zeaxanthin)
  • Prevents eye aging with powerful antioxidant effects (Beta-carotene, Vitamin C)
  • Alleviates dry eyes and eye fatigue (Betaine component)

1. Essential Nutrients for the Retina: Lutein and Zeaxanthin
The 'macula,' located in the center of our retina, is a crucial part responsible for 90% of our vision. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are the core substances that make up the macula, playing a vital role in absorbing harmful blue light from devices like smartphones and protecting eye cells from free radicals. Goji Berries are extremely rich in these two components, making them highly effective in helping to prevent age-related eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts.

2. Powerful Antioxidant Effects to Combat Eye Aging
The eye is one of the fastest-aging organs in our body. Free radicals attack eye cells and accelerate aging. The 'beta-carotene' and 'vitamin C' in Goji Berries act as powerful antioxidants to prevent this damage. Specifically, beta-carotene converts to vitamin A in the body, which helps with vision in low light and maintains the strength of the mucous membranes on the eye's surface.

3. Moisturizing Dry Eyes and Improving Eye Fatigue
The 'betaine' in Goji Berries promotes blood circulation and helps improve liver function. In traditional Korean medicine, it is believed that 'a healthy liver leads to bright eyes.' As liver fatigue is relieved, the fatigue accumulated in the eyes can also naturally be resolved. This makes it beneficial for those suffering from dry eye syndrome or frequent bloodshot eyes.


Harvested goji berries



Precautions for Consuming Goji Berries (Are there any side effects?)

Even something as healthy as the Goji Berry requires caution depending on an individual's constitution and condition.

[Summary of Precautions]

  • Those with a naturally warm body constitution should avoid excessive intake.
  • Consult a professional if taking diabetes medication, as it may lower blood sugar.
  • Allergic reactions can occur, though rarely.


1. Warm Nature

Goji Berries are considered to have a 'warm' nature. If someone who typically has a lot of body heat or an inflammatory condition (like dermatitis or enteritis) consumes them in excess, it could worsen symptoms or cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.


2. Blood Sugar Control

Some studies have shown that Goji Berries can have a blood sugar-lowering effect. Therefore, if you are taking medication for diabetes, consuming Goji Berries concurrently could pose a risk of your blood sugar dropping too low. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before consumption.


3. Allergic Reactions

Although very rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as skin rashes or itching. If you are trying them for the first time, it's wise to start with a small amount and monitor your body's reaction.

Dried goji berries



How can you healthily incorporate Goji Berries into your diet? (Usage Guide)

1. The Easiest Method: Goji Berry Tea
Rinse 10-15g of dried Goji Berries, add them to 1 liter of water, and boil for 20-30 minutes. You can store it in the refrigerator and drink it like water throughout the day to relieve eye fatigue.

2. Whole Nutrition: Goji Berry Powder
You can easily consume Goji Berry powder by mixing it into milk or yogurt. Adding a little to a salad dressing is also a great option.

3. Add it to Rice
Try adding a small handful (about 10 berries) of washed, dried Goji Berries when you cook rice. It enhances the flavor of the rice and is an easy way to care for your eye health daily.

To share my personal tip, I personally prefer to infuse dried Goji Berries in warm water for about 5 minutes to make a tea. I find that drinking a warm cup, especially around 3-4 PM when my eyes feel the most strained from computer work, really helps to relax the tension in my eyes. I also make sure to chew and eat the rehydrated berries; their subtle sweetness helps curb my cravings for other snacks.



Goji berry tea made from dried goji berries




Conclusion

There is a saying that "If the body is worth a thousand dollars, the eyes are worth nine hundred." This emphasizes how integral eye health is to our quality of life. Starting today, why not give your tired eyes a gift of rest with a cup of red jewel Goji Berry tea instead of coffee or soda? Consistent care and small actions will help keep your world bright and clear for a long time to come.


[References]

  • Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, "Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum): A Review of Its Effects on The Triad of Health, Aging, and Disease"
  • Journal of Korean Medicine Ophthalmology & Otolaryngology & Dermatology, "An Experimental Study on the Retinal Protective Effects of Lycii Fructus"


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