The Mighty Goji Berry

What is Goji Berry?

Goji berries are considered by most to be a very important superfood.  It contains many vitamins and minerals that can help boost your immune system. The word goji is actually a Westernization of the Chinese word for the berry, which can be transliterated as "gouqi." The berry is a common ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine, dating back thousands of years.

Nutritional Profile

The oblong red goji berry easily fulfills the requirements of a super food. It has a high concentration of phytochemicals, amino acids, vitamins B and C, and beta-carotene. Additionally, it contains 11 essential and 22 trace dietary minerals, is an outstanding source of the antioxidant lycopene, and is moderately high in alpha-linolenic acid. The goji berry also can supply extra protein, dietary fiber, calcium, zinc, and selenium. This nutritional profile gives the goji berry many health-enhancing properties.

Health Benefits

This fruit protects against;

1. Cardiovascular
2. Inflammatory diseases
3. Age-related vision disorders (such as glaucoma and macular degeneration).

Studies have pointed to the berry's neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, and anticancer properties as well. This last benefit was underscored by a study published in the Chinese journal of Oncology, which indicated that cancer patients responded better to treatment while on a diet that included goji. However, the study recommended that individuals on blood-thinning medications avoid eating goji berries, which may interfere with the drugs.