Goji berries have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries and are now gaining popularity in the western world as a superfood. Some of the most impressive health benefits of goji berries include their ability to boost immunity, aid in weight loss, and protect against heart disease and cancer.
Goji berries are a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins, which are essential for good health. Antioxidants help protect the body against damage from free radicals, while vitamins are essential for various bodily processes. Goji berries are particularly high in vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties.
In addition to their high vitamin and antioxidant content, goji berries are also a good source of fibre, which is essential for good digestive health. They are also a low-glycemic food, thus having a low impact on blood sugar levels.
There are many different ways to incorporate goji berries into your diet. You can add them to smoothies or yogurt, sprinkle them on top of cereal or oatmeal, or bake them into muffins or other baked goods. You can also find goji berries in dried form, which makes them a convenient and easy way to add to your diet.
What are the benefits of goji berries?
1. Are a good source of antioxidants
Antioxidants are important for overall health as they help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Goji berries are especially high in antioxidant compounds called polyphenols. These compounds can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
2. May improve blood sugar control
Goji berries have a high concentration of a type of sugar called fructose. Fructose is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. In one study, people with type 2 diabetes who consumed goji berries had improved blood sugar control after three hours.
3. May boost brain health
Goji berries are a good source of a compound called beta-sitosterol. Beta-sitosterol is known to promote nerve growth factor (NGF), which is essential for the health and survival of nerve cells. NGF is involved in brain function and development, and low levels have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Improve heart health
Goji berries are rich in compounds such as polyphenols and beta-sitosterol that may protect the heart. Polyphenols can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. Beta-sitosterol can lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health.
5. May boost immunity
Goji berries are a good source of vitamins C and A. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Vitamin A is essential for a healthy immune system. In one study, people who took a goji berry supplement had increased levels of white blood cells, which are important for fighting infection.
6. May have anti-cancer effects
Goji berries contain compounds that may protect against cancer. These compounds include polyphenols and carotenoids. Polyphenols can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. Carotenoids are antioxidants that can help neutralize harmful compounds.
What is the nutritional value in goji berries?
The nutrient value of 100 g of goji berries according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is as follows:
Energy: 367 kcal
Protein: 13.3 g
Carbohydrate: 76.7 g
Fibre: 13.3 g
Sugars: 46.7 g
Calcium: 190 mg
Iron: 7.5 mg
Potassium: 1670 mg
Sodium: 300 mg
What do goji berries do to your body?
Goji berries are a popular superfood and are often touted for their health benefits. They are a good source of antioxidants and vitamins, and they may be helpful in preventing cell damage and promoting eye health. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential health benefits.
What are the disadvantages of eating goji berries?
Overall, goji berries are generally safe to eat and offer many potential health benefits. However, there are a few potential disadvantages to be aware of before adding them to your diet.
Firstly, goji berries are relatively high in sugar. While they do contain some fibre and protein, which can help offset the sugar, it is still something to be aware of if you are trying to watch your sugar intake.
Secondly, goji berries can interact with certain medications. If you take any blood thinners or blood pressure medications, you should speak to your doctor before adding goji berries to your diet.
Finally, some people may be allergic to goji berries. If you experience any symptoms such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after eating goji berries, you should seek medical attention immediately.
What happens if you eat goji berries every day?
There are no known side effects of consuming goji berries every day. In fact, goji berries are considered a superfood because of their high nutrient and antioxidant content. Some potential benefits of consuming goji berries every day include improved circulation, better digestion, and a boost to the immune system.
Who should avoid goji berries?
People allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, or daisies may also be allergic to goji berries. The pollen of the goji berry plant can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, you should avoid goji berries.
People with diabetes should also avoid goji berries. Goji berries can lower blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for people with diabetes. If you have diabetes, you should speak to your doctor before consuming goji berries.
Goji berries are generally safe for most people to consume. However, there are some people who should avoid goji berries. If you have allergies or diabetes, you should speak to your doctor before consuming goji berries.
What is the best way to eat goji berries?
There are many ways that you can incorporate goji berries into your diet in order to reap the most benefits. One way is to eat them as a snack. You can also add them to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or salads. If you want to get the most out of goji berries, it is best to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before consuming them. This will help release more of the nutrients and antioxidants found in them.
