Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 3/29/2008

Question
What do you think of this?
I bought some at Walmart and after only a few days I DO feel better.
Not that I am sick,just an average 50 year old guy with all the old guy problems-poor digestion,metabolic syndrome,lack of energy,poor sleep.
Problem is there are so many different types out there,and some are rip offs.
Any thoughts?

Answer
Hello Bud,
Thanks for your question.  Wow, first of all I am surprised that WalMart is selling Goji Berry Juice.  That's a sign of the times.  I know that Wal Mart is known for low prices, and sometimes this comes at the cost of quality.  Goji doesn't have to be very expensive, but I'd be concerned if it's as cheap as apple juice--in that case, it's likely a blend with little actual goji in it.  In fact, this is the problem with quality you speak of.  If you can find a moderately priced, organic form of the juice, I'd go with that.  The expensive ones are often multi level marketing schemes, and the juice is probably no better than what you find at Wal Mart.  That said there are some better brands, but they will be more expensive & available at Whole Foods or a local health food store.  Be wary of mail order/ internet sources--obviously, it's distributed everywhere, so you should have no trouble finding it in a physical store.  The advantage of that is you do have someone to hold accountable if you're not happy with the product.  
To speak to your bigger question, I like goji berry and the newer antioxidant fruits out there.  I prefer the dried berries myself.  There are undoubtedly benefits of the nutrients in it, and we could all use a boost to our nutrition.  But it's not a panacea and won't cure anything without more fundamental changes.  I believe it should be used as intended--a supplement to, not a replacement for, a healthy lifestyle: a diet high in water, fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, moderate in meat, dairy, & good oils like olive & fish, & low in sugar, caffeine, alcohol, trans fats, and processed foods, along with good quality sleep, exercise, no smoking, managing stress, fulfilling work & family life, and a sense of purpose or spirituality.  These are the foundations for health, and we should always be addressing these along with any supplements, herbs, or medications.  We all know this, but it is hard to put into action; so enlisting the support of family, friends, and practitioners like a naturopathic doctor, holistic MD, personal trainer, or nutritionist will help greatly.  At fifty years old, you can still do any or all of these; it's never too late and even small gradual changes will be of benefit for years to come.  Good luck!
Dr Conner