In the United States, nearly 40% of individuals will receive a cancer diagnosis during their lifetimes, as reported by the National Cancer Institute. (Discover the top 2 cancer risk factors identified in a recent study.) To lower your cancer risk, incorporating cancer-fighting foods into your diet may be beneficial—and this includes the goji berry, a relatively unknown, low-calorie berry from Asia that also promotes better sleep.
While fresh goji berries are not commonly found in North America, they are widely available in dried form both in stores and online. Despite their small size, they are packed with nutrients that may help prevent cancer. For example, five tablespoons of unsweetened dried goji berries offer 3.64 milligrams of fiber and 7,500 International Units of vitamin A. Together, these nutrients may help reduce systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are often linked to cancer development. Moreover, fiber may help protect the gut and intestinal tract from cancer by supporting healthy digestion.
Strong Functional Food Potential
The fiber content alone can have a significant impact on reducing the risk of stomach and bowel cancers. A 2023 review in Nutrients examined the link between fiber intake and various cancers, finding evidence that higher fiber consumption could lower the likelihood of gastric and colorectal cancers, among others. With over 153,000 colorectal cancer cases diagnosed yearly, it’s the fourth most common cancer after breast, prostate, and lung cancers.
Beyond fiber, goji berries are rich in antioxidants, which may enhance their role as a functional food that provides cancer protection. A 2022 review in Antioxidants highlighted that the anti-cancer properties of goji berries stem from bioactive compounds that boost antioxidant activity.
Several studies have explored these properties in clinical settings. For instance, a 2022 study in F1000Research examined the effects of goji berry extract on oral cancer cells. Lab results indicated potential for using goji berry derivatives to manage the growth of existing cancer cells.
Superfood Status in a Small Package
A 2021 chapter in Cancer (Second Edition) discussed goji berry as a potential preventative against breast cancer, noting that goji berry extract could inhibit cancer cell lines, suggesting its use as a therapeutic cancer treatment. These findings align with a 2018 study from Natural Products Communications, which also found goji berry extract effective as a preventive agent for triple-negative breast cancer cells.
If you’re looking to include cancer-fighting foods in your diet, goji berries are a convenient choice. (Explore other practical methods to lower your risk of common cancers.) In their dried form, they can be easily added to hot or cold cereals, salads, homemade trail mixes, and yogurt. Alternatively, they can be consumed directly from the package as a quick snack to enjoy the numerous health benefits they offer.
However, a potential drawback of consuming goji berries is that they may interact with blood-thinning medications, as well as some diabetes and blood pressure medicines. If you are taking any of these, it’s advisable to consult with a doctor before incorporating goji berries into your diet.
