The Benefits Of Goji Berries

A key food in traditional Chinese medicine, goji berries have been consumed there for millennia. Nicknamed miraculous berries, berries of smiles or berries of youth. These small red fruits have been very popular lately and have risen to the rank of superfood. Let’s learn all about the benefits goji berry.

Calories and nutritional values of dried goji berries

Only marketed dried, goji berries have a high nutritional value. With a high concentration of nutrients and micronutrients, as is the case with all dried fruits. Their caloric value is around 320 calories and their carbohydrate content is 70 g per 100 g, namely much like those of raisins. Dried goji berries are therefore rather energetic fruits.

We also note their exceptional fiber content, which contributes to making this fruit a precious food for the line and for health. But what has made the success of these little berries is their very high content of various antioxidants, widely praised by manufacturers. They contain vitamins A, E and C, carotenoids, zeaxanthin, flavonoids, selenium and even zinc.

Benefits, properties and health properties of goji berries

Since the early 1980s, goji berry has been at the center of many studies that seek to justify its historical use. A number of them have been conducted and published in China by the prestigious government science and technology commission and have produced interesting results.

– Anti-diabetes allies

Besides the many antioxidants, vitamins and minerals it contains, the goji berry is also a very good source of carbohydrates. These come in the form of polysaccharides which would improve the level of carbohydrates in the body as well as insulin. A recent study conducted in China thus looked at the therapeutic potential of plant polysaccharides in metabolic diseases, and in particular in type 2 diabetes.

Another study highlighted the protective effect of polysaccharides from Lycium barbarum (goji berries) on oxidative stress, directly involved in the onset of diabetes.

In addition, the very high proportion of fiber contained in the goji berry, coupled with its low glycemic index, contributes to making this small berry a fruit that moderately raises blood sugar and therefore authorized for diabetics.

– Skin and eyes

With its strong antioxidant power, the goji berry lives up to its ancestral nickname of “berry of youth”. Among the many antioxidants it contains, goji contains zeaxanthin. Known for its protective effect on the eyes, it preserves from diseases due to cellular aging.

Antioxidants also have the ability to fight against free radicals, which are largely responsible for the premature aging of cells.

– An anti-cancer fruit

Several studies have looked into the anti-cancer effects of goji berries. They suggest on the one hand that the berries could be a useful adjuvant treatment for cancers. On the other hand, they are able to increase the sensitivity to radiotherapy and to reinforce the immune system of cancer patients. And finally that they could inhibit the growth of human leukemia cells.

– Good for the liver

The polysaccharides, zeaxanthin and cerebroside contained in goji, would contribute to the hepatoprotective effect of the goji berry. It works by inhibiting lipid peroxidation of liver cells. Thus helping to repair damage to liver cells induced by carbon tetrachloride (a toxic chemical compound). It also facilitates recovery from liver necrosis.

– A slimming fruit

Although it is relatively caloric and sweet, the goji berry is famous for its effect on the line. It is also the famous – and controversial – Dr Dukan who largely contributed to its popularity in the 2000s, Both rich in fiber which limits the intestinal absorption of sugars and fats, in anti-fatigue vitamin C and in chrome which reduces sugar cravings, this little berry would be a precious slimming aid. Its low glycemic index also makes it very satiating and helps regulate food intake and promote weight loss.

Finally, goji berries are interesting in the context of a low-calorie diet. They help limit vitamin and mineral deficiencies, often linked to these restrictive diets.

How to eat dried goji berries?

Mixed with yogurt, muesli, fruit salad, cooked in cakes or biscuits, in juice, smoothie, juice or infusion: the recipe possibilities with goji are endless!

Why shouldn’t you eat too many goji berries?

Some recent studies have revealed the presence of pesticides in large quantities in many products marketed in France. In certain growing regions, there are in particular very high quantities of sulfur in the land, resulting in a high concentration of this toxic metal in the berries. It is therefore recommended to choose products with organic farming certification and without pesticide residues, and when in doubt to limit their consumption to cures of a few weeks.

In addition, goji berries are contraindicated during pregnancy, as they are suspected of stimulating the uterus and causing contractions.

For more health content, click here.

I hope you enjoyed these benefits of Goji Berries and found them useful. Comment down below what you think, have you ever tried it, or share with us what you know about it.

Looking forward to reading your comments, sending you love and positive energy!!!