Goji berries are an element of traditional Chinese medicine, having been used for thousands of years for health and wellness. Native to China, they are also sometimes referred to as ‘Chinese wolfberries’ and are considered a cousin to the tomato.
Goji berries are slightly sweet and a bit sour in taste, with a long list of health benefits. It’s not enough to simply say goji berries have a high nutritional value though. Here’s a shortlist of some of what goji berries are good for and the advantages to consuming them on a regular basis.
Weight loss.
Eating 14 grams of goji berries a day can support a healthy metabolism and lead to reduction in fat in the body, particularly as it relates to weight circumference. The antioxidants in goji berries will also help to lower oxidative stress also contributing to more weight loss.
Liver health.
Goji berries can help support liver function by preventing bacteria and viruses from attaching to cell membranes on the liver as well as other internal organs. This can stop infections from developing.
Polyphenols.
Polyphenols are active compounds which will fight off free radicals and lower inflammation, and goji berries are absolutely packed with them. Although goji berries have a strong reputation for their antioxidant content, we can’t forget about polyphenols.
Dry eyes.
In an age where we spend over 12 hours a day on average fixated on screens, goji berries are found to be helpful in treating dry eyes. In fact, goji berries have been shown to reverse dry eye disease in large part due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Stabilize blood sugar.
Goji berries in supplement form have been found to help decrease blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Better athletic performance.
Goji berries consumed in juice form can actually increase energy and improve your workout. As an athlete or to anyone passionate about fitness, goji berries may be another ingredient to add into your diet.
Protection against age-related disease.
Age-related diseases like dementia can be slowed, as well as other signs of aging, by eating goji berries regularly. Scientists believe this is due to the presence of polysaccharide, a carb in these berries, which is known to lower inflammation and reduce stress in the body.
Strengthens the immune system.
Goji berries are extremely high in antioxidants which will give your immune system a boost. Some studies show goji berries may be more effective in some people than the flu vaccine in fighting against cold and flu symptoms.
Goji berries in Canada can be purchased by the pound from Lierre.ca. Use them in salads, trail mix, cereal, yogurt, protein shakes, and more. Shake up your diet and reap the benefits with this amazing superfood!
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