What are Goji Berries?
These bright, red-orange berries are native to Asia and traditionally used in Chinese medicine for their numerous health benefits. Goji berry in Chinese is called Gou Qi Zi (Mandarin).
The goji berry plant is typically found in northern China's Ningxia region, where the berries are cultivated along fertile floodplains that have lined the Yellow River for more than 700 years. The goji berry bush can get as tall as 6 feet. The goji berry is so important to China's economy that the fruit is often referred to as 'red diamond'.
Fresh goji berry taste may be described as bland and slightly bitter. When dried, however, they are comparable to a raisin or cranberry, with a tart and sour taste. Dried goji berries are chewy and slightly soft.
Not only are they easy to implement in your everyday diet, Goji berries provide numerous health benefits for your skin, eyes, immune system, and overall well-being.
Health Benefits of Goji Berries
Due to a high concentration of vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, and fiber. Goji berries:
1) Boost immunity
Vitamins A and C directly support the immune system, acting as antioxidants. These berries have traditionally been used in Asian medicine to prevent illness and infection. In 30-day studies in adults, drinking goji juice every day increased immune cell levels and improved general feelings of well-being.
2) Induce feelings calmness and reduces stress
As Goji berries reduce blood pressure and reduce inflammation, they may also reduce stress and allow for better quality of sleep.
3) Encourage skin health
There are so many goji berry skin benefits. Vitamin C promotes collagen creation, which protects the skin and helps repair from UV damage and aging.
4) Promote eye health
With healthy antioxidants such as zeaxanthin, Goji berries protect the eyes from UV damage, free radicals and degeneration.
5) Encourage weight loss
Goji berries may be beneficial for weight loss in their ability to increase body metabolic rate. They may also support digestion with a high fiber content.
Drawbacks
You should avoid Goji if you are on medication for blood thinning, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Additionally, Goji berries may be harmful to fetal health during pregnancy, although further research is required.
Ways to Eat Goji Berries
Most commonly consumed in their dried form, goji berries are frequently added into granolas, salads, or yogurts. In addition, goji berry powder, goji berry smoothie, and goji berry tea are also easy ways to incorporate their various health benefits into your daily routine.
What are some of your favorite goji berry recipes? Let us know in the comments below!
By: Suzie Lee, Cornell University
Sources: WebMD, Bon Appetit, Healthline, Medical News Today