The Effect of Gojiberry Intake (Lycium Barbarium) on Macular Function

Objective: To evaluate the effects of goji berry intake for three months on macular pigment ocular density (MPOD) between 45 and 65 years old. Specific Aims: Determine if goji berry intake for 90 days, 5 times per week, will: * result in favorable changes in macular pigment optical density (MPOD), as measured using heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP), in adults aged from 45 to 65 years old. * impact the carotenoid distribution in the skin. * will change the fermentation capacity of the gut microbiota. The investigators hypothesize that the intake of 28 grams of goji berry for 90 days, 5 days per week will significantly increase MPOD after three months, compared to baseline values. In contrast, the investigators hypothesize that a dietary supplement of lutein and zeaxanthin will not alter MPOD.