Goji berries (pronounced 'go-gee'), sometimes also known as wolfberries, are considered to be one of the most nutrient-rich plant foods on Earth. The goji berry is a vibrant deep-red, dried fruit about the same size as a current or raisin. It has a sweet taste, with a slight tartness, and is like a cross between a cranberry and a cherry. The fruit is nicknamed the "happy berry" because of the sense of well being it is said to induce.
Goji berries are grown predominantly in the hills of northwest China and Tibet. They grow on vines and are dried and preserved in the sun. They have been eaten by Tibetan monks and used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
Goji berries are nutritionally rich. They are packed full of: Antioxidants: they are the richest known source of beta-carotene of all foods (weight for weight they contain 500 times more beta-carotene than oranges!), vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamins B1, B2 and B6, 21 trace minerals, including zinc, calcium and selenium, 18 amino acids, omegas (essential fatty acids) and polysaccharides which fortify and support a healthy immune system.
Anti-oxidants work by "mopping up" unstable molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are caused by pollutants such as cigarette smoke and chemicals in our food. They are highly active, unstable molecules and can damage the body's proteins, fats and DNA. There are many negative effects of free radicals including contributing towards heart disease and cancer as well as speeding up the ageing process. Eating a healthy balanced diet and including nutrient rich superfoods like goji berries, reduces the damage done by free radicals.
Goji Berries have many health benefits. They are thought to: enhance libido / sex drive (they are known as a natural viagra!), boost energy and general well being, improve cellulite - (they are known as cellulite assassinators as they are packed with skin-boosting antioxidants), assist in weight loss and burn fat, slow ageing, fight cancer, fight heart disease, boost the immune system, improve hearing and eyesight, maintain healthy blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, enhance fertility and reduce morning sickness, build muscle, strengthen bones and tendons, strengthen and support healthy liver and kidney function and maintain a healthy nervous system.
The recommended daily serving of goji berries is between 10-30g. Goji berries are very versatile and can be added to smoothies, muesli, breakfast cereals, yoghurt, cakes, or enjoyed as they are as a nutritious and healthy snack. Visit www.go-goji.co.uk, a UK based supplier of premium quality goji berries, and feel the benefits!
