The Goji berry (Lycium Barbarum) is also called the wolf berry. It is a bright orange-red berry that comes from a shrub that’s native to the Himalayan Mountains of Tibet, China and Mongolia, and many other countries.So, they are also known as Himalayan superfood. They have been used in many medicinal preparations for thousands of years, proving its efficiency as a medicinal plant.
It is enjoyed above most other super foods and adaptogenic herbs, because it is much more palatable compared to many of the other bitter roots and barks.
Goji berries improve the immune system and increase longevity due to it’s powerful antioxidants. They are rich in carotenoids and other antioxidants like beta-carotene and Zeaxanthym. Zeaxanthyn is an antioxidant that absorbs blue light and protects our retina of our eyes and improves our vision and it also reduces the risk of age related macular degeneration, that is found in people over the age of 65.
People consuming Goji berries on a regular basis noticed other benefits such as better eyesight, great hair color, improved libido, improvement in mood, more quality sleep, a definite enhancement in their energy levels, and over all a brighter outlook on life.
Traditionally dried Goji berries have a pleasant chewy texture, and taste like a cross between sweet cherries and plums. You can enjoy them straight out of the bag like we usually do, or you can add them to cold and hot cereals, smoothies, trail mixes, grain dishes, stews, and baked goods.You can even add a handful of Goji berries to a bottle of water and enjoy your water with a hint of Goji sweetness; by the time you finish your water, you'll have soft and plump berries to gobble down.
Nutritional Facts of Goji Berries
Vitamin C
Vitamins B1,B2,B6 & E
antioxidants
an anti-inflammatory agent
18 amino acids
8 polysaccharides and 6 monosaccharides
21 trace minerals (including copper, zinc, iron, calcium, copper, selenium, germanium, and phosphorus)
Health Benefits of Goji Berries
Cancer Prevention
One of the biggest advantages of bright red berries such as goji berries is that they contain a high concentration of antioxidants , which is very effective in the fight against cancer . If you eat goji berries , antioxidants are the cancer-causing free radicals in the blood find and remove .
Heart Disease and Cholesterol
A further advantage of the antioxidants is that they bring the level of bad cholesterol down and protect the heart against diseases. They also contain fiber and a higher dietary fiber intake is again associated with a high cholesterol and lower risk of a heart attack.
Weight Lose
One of the reasons why goji berries can help you lose weight that they have a low glycemic index . Goji scoring 29 in the glycemic index , while more familiar fruits have much higher scores , so scoring 38 apples and watermelons 72 . Only bananas are on the same level as goji berries with a slightly lower score of 25 .
Anti-aging
Also, the slowing down of the aging process can be achieved by eating certain types of food . The antioxidants found in goji berries delaying wrinkles and aging. In addition, the lifetime could increase , because you prevent diseases and ailments by eating antioxidant .
Eye Health
Goji berries contain vitamin A, beta-carotene and zeaxanthin . These substances are all associated with healthy eyes. They protect your eyesight and prevent certain eye diseases such as macular degeneration.
Better Sleep
Regular consumption of goji berries can help improve your sleep . If you suffer from insomnia , try to eat goji berries daily and your sleep pattern will likely improve .
Stress Reduction
Goji berries could reduce stress and a sense of calmness , happiness and general well-being can promote . In periods of stress eating can it reduce the cortisol levels in your body .
Good for Stiff Joints
Regularly eating goji berries can be good for your bones and tendons . It can reduce joint stiffness , joint pain and bad knees or prevented . Within the Chinese medicine , the tendons and bones considered ‘ is dominated by ‘ (depending on ) the liver and the kidneys. Because goji berries are good for the liver and kidneys , they can also improve the condition of the joints , tendons and bones . Regularly eating goji berries can prevent bone and joint diseases .
There are more similarities between goji berries and bananas . Like bananas, goji berries contain a lot of fiber , namely 21 percent . Remember that fiber foods make you feel full longer . As a result, you’d better stick to your diet and you will not eat more than you actually can .
Side of Effects Goji Berries
There can be adverse interactions if you consume goji berries while also taking medication for diabetes, or blood pressure, or take the blood thinner warfarin. So be sure to consult your health care provider if that is the case.
Otherwise, it's probably safe to eat goji berries in moderation.
