Scientists have discovered that goji berries (Lycium Barbarum), long used in traditional Chinese medicine to increase resistance to cold, do indeed have the ability to stimulate heat production in the body. According to a study published in the FASEB journal, these berries effectively help the body cope with cold stress, gazeta.ru reports.
Experiments on mice have shown that long-term consumption of polysaccharides contained in goji berries helps maintain normal body temperature in low temperatures. The mechanism of action is associated with stimulation of the formation of brown adipose tissue, which plays a key role in thermogenesis.
In addition, scientists noted that goji polysaccharides have a beneficial effect on the intestinal microbiome, increasing the diversity of beneficial bacteria. An increase in energy metabolism in experimental animals was also recorded, which can serve as a preventative measure against obesity.
Scientists believe that with further research, it will be possible to develop food supplements based on goji berry polysaccharides that would be especially beneficial for people living in cold climates.
