The Health Benefits of Golden Berries

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Posted: 19 Apr 2014 08:00 AM PDT

Golden berries, also known as Physalis peruviana, is South American fruit that’s highly concentrated with nutrients and bioactive compounds. In Colombia, the delicious golden berry is an important international export and prominent local food. ^[1] The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, often against jaundice. ^[2] While the evidence for golden berry application for jaundice remains anecdotal, research has found other positive health benefits associated with the fruit.

Golden Berry Nutrition Facts

Resembling a golden raisin but with a flavor that’s more sweet and tart, golden berries are extremely nutrient dense superfoods with easily absorbable bioavailable compounds. Golden berries contain linoleic and oleic acid, two essential fatty acids that aid in insulin sensitivity and fat oxidation ^[3]. There is also some research suggesting the fatty acids' effectiveness for promoting good health in general. ^[4]

Compared to other small berries, golden berries are higher in protein and vitamin A and they’re much lower in sugar. They’re also loaded with antioxidants. Phytochemical screening has revealed an abundance of flavonoids in golden berries, indicating its potent health capabilities. ^[5] Flavonoids are specific antioxidants that promote cardiovascular health and offer other benefits.

The Health Benefits of Golden Berries

Plants used in traditional medicine have drawn the attention of researchers who seek to develop new therapeutic agents for a wide range of diseases. In folk medicine, golden berries have many applications and many cultures regard golden berries as a mild diuretic that promotes proper fluid balance. ^[6] Some other ways that golden berries encourage good health includes the following…

Normal Blood Sugar

Starch and sugar are broken down in the body through an enzymatic reaction, a process that can increase blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that golden berries may be helpful for inhibiting the enzyme responsible for this reaction and preventing the breakdown of starchy carbohydrates; thus controlling the impact carbohydrates have on blood sugar. ^[7]

Discourages Systemic Redness and Swelling

Illness and irritation can cause redness and swelling in the body; it’s indicative of many diseases. ^[8] Research conducted by the National University of Colombia confirms that golden berries offer potent activity against systemic redness and swelling. Golden berries present an immunomodulatory effect which directly (and indirectly) blocks the affected mediators. ^[9] In layman's terms, golden berries fight redness in the body by reducing the impact of inflammatory markers. ^[10]

Liver, Kidney, and Organ Health

In late 2013, Egypt’s National Research Center’s Department of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants reported that golden berries may offer potent liver and kidney benefits, possibly protecting against the "scarring" of liver tissue. ^[11] Liver health is especially important, as it’s the body’s main detoxifying organ. Its anti-redness and antioxidant compounds may be effective for protecting other organs, including the lungs. In fact, preliminary research is even examining the potential for a primary compound in golden berries, 4 beta-Hydroxywithanolide, as a potential therapy for lung cancer.

Have You Tried Golden Berries?

There’s no question that research into golden berries has uncovered much to think about concerning their positive effects on human health. However, one of the best reasons to snack on golden berries is because, like goji berries and chia seeds, they’re a delicious and healthy snack! They’re loaded with nutrients and antioxidants and go great on a salad, in trail mix, or even by themselves. Their sweet, tart taste is unique; they’re a perfect example of a fruit that’s even better than candy!

Golden berries are not among the most common foods in America, however, and you might have to look a little harder for them. There are a few companies that provide them, I prefer Navitas Naturals Goldenberries. Have you tried them? Do you like them? Leave a comment and share!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM