I wasn't this excited about a food discovery since Quinoa!
Every now and then, we come across something that's just so special; we want to let everyone know about it. Though all berries are an absolute must in your daily nutrition, Gogi berries are one type that deserves some extra attention.
They also go by the name Wolfberry, and boxthorn fruit. You won't find them in regular grocery stores, but you're sure to find them in most food markets in China Town.
What makes Goji berries so special?
Every now and then, we come across something that's just so special; we want to let everyone know about it. Though all berries are an absolute must in your daily nutrition, Gogi berries are one type that deserves some extra attention.
They also go by the name Wolfberry, and boxthorn fruit. You won't find them in regular grocery stores, but you're sure to find them in most food markets in China Town.
What makes Goji berries so special?
The Goji berry has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years, being praised for its anti-aging properties.
The Chinese weren't far off in their original views of the power of this berry. Studies have shown it to be packed full of valuable nutrients and cancer fighting anti-oxidants. Its specific breakdown is as follows:
* 19 amino acids in which 8 are essential ones.
* 21 trace minerals such as zinc, calcium, germanium, selenium and phosphorus etc.
* A, B and E vitamins as well as large scale of antioxidants.
* More C vitamin than orange fruits.
* Beta-sitosterol
* Fatty acids that properly control the level of hormones.
* Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Among its truly impressive list of nutrients, the Goji berry has one that's of particular interest, and that's Beta-sitosterol. This is what is referred to as a phytochemical.
Phytochemicals occur naturally in plants, and they possess properties that when consumed by people, deliver disease fighting properties that can't be found in other types of food. Beta-sitosterol is mainly known and used for its cholesterol lowering property. Studies have shown that phytochemicals may have other health benefits: easing symptoms of benign prostatic enlargement, reducing risk of cancer and prevention of oxidative damage through its antioxidant activity. Go here if you'd like to know more about oxidative damage.
My recommendation is to get out there and find Goji berries! Put them in your yogurt or toss them in the blender with your smoothie. I also keep a bag of dried Goji berries in my studio, and have a small handful here and there.
This berry deserves a place in your ongoing desire to feed your body great healthy food from the vast variety that this beautiful planet has provided for us.
