GOJI BERRIES: THE BERRY WITH MORE VITAMIN C THAN ORANGES!

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF GOJI BERRIES? 

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, have been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine and have been a staple in Tibetan and Mongolian diets for centuries. They are native to China and have been cultivated there for over 2,000 years.

The dried berries were used in ancient times for their medicinal properties and as a food source. In the 1990s, goji berries gained popularity in the Western world as a “superfood” due to their high levels of antioxidants and other nutrients. They continue to be used in a variety of dietary supplements and food products today.

WHAT NUTRIENTS ARE IN GOJI BERRIES?

Goji berries contain a variety of nutrients, including:

1. Antioxidants: Goji berries contain antioxidants that help protect the body against harmful free radicals and oxidative stress.
2. Vitamins: Goji berries are a good source of vitamins A and C, which are important for maintaining good health.
3. Minerals: Goji berries contain minerals such as iron, calcium, and zinc, which are essential for many bodily functions.
4. Fiber: Goji berries are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help regulate digestion and maintain good gut health.
5. Protein: Goji berries contain a small amount of protein, making them a good addition to a balanced diet.

WHAT PERCENT OF DAILY VALUE NUTRITION IS IN GOJI BERRY?

A 100-gram serving of goji berries contains:

• 11% of the daily value (DV) of Vitamin C
• 11% of the DV of Vitamin A
• 2% of the DV of Iron
• 2% of the DV of Calcium

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF GOJI BERRIES IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE?

Goji berry has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential health benefits, including improving vision, boosting the immune system, and increasing longevity.

In traditional Chinese medicine, goji berry is believed to tonify the liver and kidneys, balance the body’s yin and yang, and help maintain overall health and wellness. It is often consumed as a dried fruit, steeped in hot water to make tea, or used as an ingredient in soups and stews. Despite its popularity, more scientific research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of goji berry in humans.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GOJI BERRIES?

Goji berries are often touted as a superfood due to their high antioxidant content, which includes carotenoids and polyphenols. Some of the claimed benefits of goji berries include:

1. Boosting the Immune System: Goji berries are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron, that help boost the immune system.
2. Improving Eye Health: Goji berries contain high levels of zeaxanthin, a carotenoid that is beneficial for eye health and may help protect against age-related eye diseases.
3. Promoting Heart Health: Goji berries are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to have a positive impact on cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and other markers of heart health.
4. Boosting Energy and Stamina: Goji berries contain antioxidants and nutrients that can help improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.
5. Anti-Aging Properties: Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, which may help protect against oxidative stress and improve overall skin health, leading to a more youthful appearance.
6. Supporting Weight Loss: Goji berries are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a good snack for people looking to lose weight.

HOW DO I CONSUME GOJI BERRIES?

Goji berries can be consumed raw, dried, or as a juice or tea. They can also be added to smoothies, yogurt, cereal, trail mix, baked goods, and more. Some people also use goji berries in soups and stir-fries. Dried goji berries can be rehydrated before eating or cooking with them. Goji berry supplements are also available in the form of pills, capsules, and powders. It’s important to consult a doctor before consuming goji berries in large quantities or using supplements, as they may interact with certain medications.

HOW MUCH GOJI BERRY DO I CONSUME DAILY?

There is no established recommended daily intake for goji berries. It is generally considered safe to consume moderate amounts of goji berries as a food.

Note: We are a small business so we used a cheat code (ChatGPT, phew, technology has come far!) to help me write this blog post. I double-checked the information contained within this post to ensure accuracy.