Researchers are looking at Chinese wolfberries as a way to help lessen vision problems associated with type-2 diabetes. Vision problems are not uncommon in type-2 diabetics because of the damage that can occur as a result of blood supply to the eyes becoming compromised. The fruit is being looked at as way to reduce this problem.

The reason for this is because the berries, also known as the goji berries, are high in antioxidants, and as a result, could potentially help reduce the adverse consequences of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is the process whereby the body’s ability to clear the by-products of metabolism is not working optimally. As a result, toxic compounds like free radicals and reactive oxygen can build up in the cells, resulting in health problems. Antioxidants are believed to help reduce the presence of these toxic compounds and thereby help to maintain good health.

Wolfberries are commonly grown in China and are used extensively in Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, to boost the immune system, nourish certain vital organs, and improve vision. Part of the reason for this is because the fruit is rich in the compounds zeaxanthin, lutein, and polyphenolics, all of which are believed to reduce the risk of macular degeneration that happens with aging as well as diabetic retinopathy.

With this in mind, scientists set out to see what effect dried wolfberries might have on retina pigment epithelial cell layers in animal models. This is in fact the layer of retinal cells through which all nutrients must pass. The researchers also looked at the effect of the berries on the endoplasmic reticulum, where cellular proteins are processed and folded.

In both in vitro and in vivo studies, it was observed that the wolfberry extracts protected the retinal cells in question from the detrimental effects of excessive glucose, or hyperglycemia. The fruit had a localized effect on oxidative stress as well as reducing the stress on the endoplasmic reticulum.

The authors of the study acknowledge that these are just the first steps to understanding the health benefits of the berries, and that more work needs to be done. Nevertheless, the findings are interesting, and suggest a possible health benefit associated with this dietary supplement, which is commercially available to the public. The data also lends more support for the curative properties of TCM.

It is important to keep in mind, however, that any food supplement should only be taken under the guidance of a doctor or a nutritional expert. Furthermore, supplements should not be viewed as a replacement for a wholesome diet and healthy lifestyle choices.