What Are Goji Berries’ Health Benefits?
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In the last few years, more of us are hearing about goji berries as a superfood. Celebrities like Miranda Kerr and Gwyneth Paltrow have publicly shared their love for them. In fact, these little red gems have been sought out and treasured for centuries, not just for their health benefits but also for their cultural significance. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just curious, there’s much more to discover about goji berries than meets the eye.
History and Origins
Goji berries, 枸杞 (gǒuqǐ) in Chinese, also known as wolfberries, have been a cherished ingredient in Chinese culture for thousands of years. Originating from the Ningxia region in China, these vibrant red berries are highly prized in traditional Chinese medicine and local cuisines. In addition to their nutritional value, goji berries are seen as a symbol of resilience, as they are few of the species that have survived and thrived in the harsh, cold desert climate of Northwestern China, right on the edge of the Gobi Desert.
Botanical Profile
The goji berry plant is a hardy shrub that flourishes along the fertile floodplains of the upper Yellow River. The plant comes in either Lycium barbarum or Lycium chinense species, with similar nutritional values and tastes, but the former is more widely produced and consumed. These berries are small, oval-shaped, and bright red, with a slightly sweet, tangy flavor. Black goji berries, sometimes referred to as purple goji, a related species, are rarer and distinct in appearance, flavor, and nutrition. They are darker in color and have a more subtle taste, offering a different array of antioxidants and nutrients.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Goji Berries
Rich in Antioxidants and Vitamins
Goji berries are a powerhouse of antioxidants. These nutrients help combat oxidative stress and inflammation. In fact, goji berries have higher vitamin A content at 26800 IU per 100 grams than carrots (16700 IU), acai (9700 IU), kale (4810 IU), and blackberries (214 IU), and more vitamin C at 48 mg per 100 grams than raspberries (26 IU), tomatoes (14 IU), and even dried spirulina (10 IU) according to USDA.
Minerals
These berries are also rich in essential minerals like calcium and iron. Remarkably, goji berries contain more calcium at 190 mg per 100 grams than yogurt (127 mg), dark chocolate (73 mg), and dates (64 mg), making them an excellent choice for supporting bone health and energy levels.
Unique Compounds and Health Benefits
Goji berries are rich in polysaccharides, compounds known to enhance the immune system and promote gut health. These unique components set goji berries apart from other fruits, contributing to their status as a superfood.
Health Benefits of Goji Berries
Goji berries offer a multitude of health benefits, from boosting metabolism and digestion, improving the immune system to supporting eye health. With its strong antioxidant and adaptogen properties, they are shown to promote skin health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Finally, as a low-sugar alternative to raisins, dates, and honey, they can help regulate blood sugar levels and glycemic index, making them a versatile and fun addition to a balanced diet.
The remarkable health benefits of goji berries have made them a favorite among health enthusiasts and wellness professionals alike. Let’s explore the many ways these incredible berries can support your health and wellbeing.
1. Anti-Aging and Skin Health
Your skin deserves the best nature has to offer, and goji berries deliver exactly that. These vibrant berries are packed with compounds that help protect your skin from premature aging and environmental damage. The high levels of antioxidants and beta-carotene in goji berries work together to support your skin’s natural repair processes, helping to maintain its elasticity and youthful appearance. Regular consumption can help protect against UV damage while supporting healthy collagen production.
2. Blood Sugar Balance
One of the most remarkable qualities of goji berries is their ability to support healthy blood sugar levels. Unlike many dried fruits, goji berries have a relatively low sugar content and are packed with fiber, making them an excellent choice for those mindful of their blood sugar. Their unique polysaccharides compounds help your body process sugars more effectively, making them a healthy snack option for anyone with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes.
3. Digestive Health and Metabolism
Your gut health is central to your overall wellbeing, and goji berries are here to help. These berries contain special fiber and prebiotic compounds that support a healthy digestive system. They can help enhance your metabolism and support proper nutrient absorption, making them a valuable addition to your daily wellness routine.
4. Immune System Support
In today’s world, supporting your immune system is more important than ever, and goji berries excel in this area. These powerful berries contain unique **polysaccharides that enhance immune function. Rich in vitamin C and other immune-supporting compounds, goji berries help your body maintain its natural defenses.
5. Mental Clarity and Cognitive Function
Your brain deserves the best fuel possible. Compared to other fruits and vegetables, Goji berry has high levels of polyphenolic substances with antioxidant activities which have shown some positive effects on cognitive function. Traditional wisdom and recent research suggest that these berries may help protect brain cells and support memory function.
Why Goji Berries from Ningxia?
Superior Quality and Sourcing
Goji berries from Ningxia are considered the gold standard, thanks to the region’s highly unique growing conditions, which paradoxically is considered inhospitable for most other plant species. The area’s dry and mineral-rich soil is well fertilized by the Yellow River, while offering great drainage that’s required by goji shrubs. The abundant sunlight and huge seasonable and day-night temperature variation further create an ideal environment for growing goji berries. In the summer, the local temperature throughout the day can range from 64°F to 82°F. In April, the local temperature throughout the day can range from 44°F to 66°F.
At Gobi Goji, we are committed to responsible sourcing, ensuring that our premium goji berries are fresh, potent, and supportive of the local economy. By focusing on these exceptional growing conditions and our commitment to quality, we offer a unique experience that sets our teas and snacks apart.
Incorporating Goji Tea into a Wellness Routine
Simple Steps to Start
Gobi Goji teas are easy to brew, taking just under 5 minutes for most blends. Their vibrant color and delicious flavor make them a hit with the whole family. You can enjoy them hot or cold and customize them by adding lemon, honey, or other fruits. Try combining multiple tea blends to create a tea super cocktail!
Experience Our Unique Tea Blends
Our herbal tea blends pair goji berries with other botanicals like rose, licorice, and schisandra berries, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value. Store your dried goji berries in an airtight container, in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to preserve their freshness. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life.
We invite you to explore our product range and discover how Gobi Goji incorporates these powerful berries into delicious, easy-to-enjoy teas and snacks. By taking a holistic approach to wellness, with goji berries as a key component, you can fuel your journey to better health.