Healthy Facts About the Goji Berry

Have you ever heard of the fruit Goji berry? 

Read on to know why it must be on your radar. 

Goji berries also called wolfberries, known for their vibrant hue and unique sour flavour are native to Asia. Consumed for centuries as a food supplement and medicinal herb, it has gained some traction in the health food world, often deemed a superfood. 

Their alleged benefits range from top to toe, from anti-aging effects to relieving kidney issues, immune support and even treating eye problems. This tiny and versatile super fruit has gained so much attention for all the right reasons. 

Nutritional facts about goji berries —

They are packed with nutrients and vitamins like zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C and bursting with antioxidants. For a fruit, 1-ounce provides 10 percent of your daily value for protein. This is a surprising amount of protein which is why you must add them to your daily diet. However before you add them to your diet, always seek medical practioner advice.

Goji berry health benefits —

• Boosts your immune system- A strong immune system very often means flu protection. The vitamins and antioxidants in goji berries fight against free radicals and inflammation in the body thus supporting your immune system. Goji berries also contain large amounts of vitamins A and C which are vital building blocks for our immune system to prevent illnesses right from the flu to cancer. 
• Aids in weight loss- Goji berries are super healthy and pack a lot of fibre and healthy energy which can keep you on track with your weight loss goals. Goji berries are a go to light mid meal snack to avoid overeating. 
• Balances hormones- Goji berries have proven to restore and balance hormonal health. 
• Promotes healthy skin and has anti-aging properties- Goji berries contain beta-carotene, which is known for its ability to promote healthy skin, reduce skin irritation and manage the effects of sun damage. The powerful anti-ageing benefits of goji berries have been linked to suppressing the formation of wrinkles and even collagen damage caused by ultraviolet radiation.
• Protects the eyes- Goji berries have shown to help reduce the risk of glaucoma, improve vision and even protect against age-related eye diseases. This all thanks to the high levels of healthy antioxidants, especially zeaxanthin found in these berries. 
• Protects the body against cancer- The high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C found in goji berries are responsible for fighting cancer cells and slowing down tumour growth. 
• Improves depression, anxiety and sleep- Goji berries are often used to help to improve your mood, increase your energy levels and quality of sleep. Goji berries can improve depression and anxiety-like behaviours. 
• Detoxifies the liver and prevents liver damage- Goji berries are often used in liver cleanses to restore the strength and vitality of the liver. It is also a natural remedy for kidney stones and liver disease. 
• Maintains and stabilises blood sugar- Goji berries have the potential to lower blood sugar, improve sugar tolerance and even help insulin resistance. They are every diabetics best friend. A study linked goji berries to increased HDL levels (good cholesterol)  in people with type 2 diabetes. 
• Enhances fertility, aids in sexual health and increases testosterone- Goji berries increase testosterone levels in men and can often be considered a natural remedy for erectile dysfunction. Goji berries have been tied to sexual fertility, increased sperm count and quality and improved sexual ability for centuries. Some even call goji berries Nature’s Viagra. 
• Boosts hair growth- Goji berries are rich in vitamin A obviously making them a great hair booster. It enhances blood circulation to the scalp, thereby boosting hair growth and preventing hair fall. 
• Good for your heart- Consuming goji berries lower heart risks like heart attacks, heart disease, protect the heart by preventing further development and deterioration caused by heart disease and lowering your blood pressure. Want to manage cholesterol levels for the sake of your heart health? Consume Goji berries regularly and see the difference. 
• Reduces arthritis pain- Goji berries have anti-inflammatory properties which are known to relieve pain, even arthritic pain. 

When to avoid adding goji berries to your diet —

Before you add goji berries to your diet, always consult your doctor. Some goji berry manufacturers claim that they have less side effects than medications for the same illness but goji berries can negatively interact with medications. 

Here are some cases — 

• If you are using certain medications like blood thinners, diabetes drugs or blood pressure drugs 
• If you’re allergic to fruit or berries
• If you are pregnant
• One-fourth cup of goji berries also fulfils 340 percent of your intake for vitamin A. Make sure you stay within limits as to how much you eat to reduce the risk of vitamin A toxicity.

How to add goji berries to your diet —

Most supermarkets sell dried or prepackaged goji berries but you can also buy them fresh. Be sure to buy your goji berries from a reputable source, even though they tend to be expensive because cheaper brands contain additives like sulphites. 

Treat them like raisins or fresh berries. 

Add goji berries to yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, breakfast cereals, trail mix, teas, juices or even as a stand alone snack.  You can also cook goji berries with lean pork or turkey to add a tarty sweetness to savoury dishes. 

Goji berry supplements are often prescribed by nutritionists to patients for an added health boost. Be sure to talk to your doctor before going down the goji berry supplements route. 

Takeaway —

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious food to add to your diet, goji berries are exactly what you are looking for. 

A welcome change from the same old fruits you eat on the regular. 

Goji berries boost your health in more ways than one making it a no-brainer addition to your diet. 

All said and done, goji berries are good for you!