Goji Berries and Medications: What You Need to Know
For most healthy adults, consuming goji berries in moderation is generally safe. However, the berries contain compounds that can interact negatively with several types of medications, potentially leading to serious health complications. This section details the most critical drug interactions to be aware of.
Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants)
One of the most significant and well-documented drug interactions involves blood-thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin). Goji berries have been shown to increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, which can elevate the International Normalized Ratio (INR). This increases the risk of bleeding and bruising, which can be dangerous or even life-threatening. This is due to goji's potential effect on certain liver enzymes that break down medications. If you are on warfarin, it is crucial to speak with your doctor before consuming goji berries.
Diabetes Medications
Goji berries can lower blood sugar levels. While this may be beneficial for some, it can be hazardous for individuals taking diabetes medications such as insulin, glipizide, or glyburide. Consuming goji berries in addition to these drugs can cause blood sugar to drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, confusion, and fainting. Close monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential for diabetics who want to consume goji berries, and it should only be done under a doctor's supervision.
High Blood Pressure Medications
Similar to their effect on blood sugar, goji berries may also lower blood pressure. For those already taking medication for hypertension (high blood pressure), such as ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril, enalapril) or calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine), combining them with goji berries could cause blood pressure to drop excessively. This can lead to hypotension, causing dizziness or lightheadedness. As with other medications, consult a healthcare provider to ensure safety.
Goji Berries and Pregnancy: A Cautionary Tale
Pregnant women are strongly advised to avoid goji berries, especially during the first trimester. Some sources consider goji berries to be 'LIKELY UNSAFE' for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The primary concern stems from the compound betaine, which some studies have linked to potential risks.
- Uterine Contractions: Excessive consumption of betaine has been correlated with uterine contractions. This can increase the risk of miscarriage or premature labor. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners also advise against using goji berries in formulas for pregnant women due to this potential stimulating effect.
- Other Risks: While research is ongoing, some evidence suggests potential developmental risks in early pregnancy, such as neural tube defects, linked to high betaine intake. Given the limited research and potential for harm, most medical professionals recommend that pregnant individuals exercise extreme caution or avoid goji berries entirely.
Other Groups Who Should Avoid Goji Berries
Nightshade Family Allergies
Goji berries belong to the nightshade family of plants (Solanaceae), which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. Individuals with a known allergy or sensitivity to other nightshade vegetables or fruits may also have an allergic reaction to goji berries. Symptoms can range from mild (skin rash, itching) to more severe (anaphylaxis). Some studies even link goji berry allergy to peach peel and a specific lipid transfer protein. If you have a known sensitivity to nightshades, it is best to avoid goji berries altogether.
Digestive Issues
For some individuals, especially when first introduced to the diet, goji berries can cause mild digestive issues such as stomach upset, gas, or diarrhea. This is likely due to the berries' high fiber content. For people with pre-existing chronic digestive conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or those with a spleen qi deficiency in TCM, goji berries may exacerbate symptoms. It's advisable to start with a very small serving and monitor your body's reaction.
High Vitamin A Levels
Goji berries are exceptionally rich in vitamin A. A single serving can provide a significant portion of the recommended daily intake. While beneficial in normal amounts, excessive vitamin A intake can lead to toxicity, causing side effects such as fatigue, blurred vision, and liver problems. Individuals who already have high vitamin A levels from other supplements or foods should be cautious with their goji berry consumption.
Goji Berries and Potential Liver Toxicity
While rare, there have been isolated reports linking high consumption of goji berry teas or supplements to cases of toxic hepatitis. Symptoms included jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) and stomach pain. This was observed in individuals consuming large quantities of goji berry tea, highlighting the potential for adverse effects when consuming highly concentrated forms. It underscores the importance of moderation and consulting a healthcare professional, especially when taking goji berry supplements.
Comparison Table: Goji Berry Risks by Individual
| Individual Group | Primary Concern | Mechanism | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taking Warfarin | Increased Bleeding Risk | Increases anticoagulant effect by interacting with liver enzymes. | Avoid. Consult doctor for alternatives. |
| Taking Diabetes Meds | Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) | Lowers blood glucose, causing potential for dangerous drops. | Avoid or use with caution. Monitor blood sugar closely with medical supervision. |
| Taking High BP Meds | Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure) | May further lower blood pressure, causing dizziness. | Avoid or use with caution. Monitor blood pressure with medical supervision. |
| Pregnant | Uterine Contractions / Miscarriage Risk | Contains betaine, which may induce contractions. | Avoid. Consult with a doctor. |
| Allergic to Nightshades | Allergic Reactions | Belongs to the nightshade family; risk of cross-reactivity. | Avoid. Check for symptoms like hives, itching. |
| Digestive Sensitivity | Stomach Upset / Diarrhea | High fiber content can cause digestive discomfort. | Limit intake. Introduce gradually and monitor symptoms. |
| High Vitamin A Levels | Vitamin A Toxicity | High vitamin A content can lead to excessive levels. | Limit intake. Be mindful of total vitamin A consumption. |
Conclusion
While goji berries offer numerous health benefits, they are not suitable for everyone. Individuals on blood thinners like warfarin, diabetes medications, or high blood pressure medication should be particularly cautious due to potentially dangerous drug interactions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to avoid them because of the risk of uterine contractions and other potential harm. Those with nightshade allergies or sensitive digestive systems may also experience adverse effects. Ultimately, before incorporating goji berries into your diet, especially if you fall into any of these high-risk categories, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your safety.
