Goji berry a superfood with many properties

02/11/2017

 

Goji berries are today one of the most well-known superfoods. The story of the plant begins from China, where for over 2000 years, they have traditionally been used to prevent and treat many diseases.

  Goji berry is also known as the “berry of happiness“, due to studies that have highlighted its beneficial properties to the health and longevity!

Goji berry

   Goji berry belongs to the family of Solanaceae, a food group that also includes potatoes, tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. There are two types of goji berry that are currently cultivated, the Lycium chinense and the Lycium barbarum.

   It is a reddish fruit, which has a high content of carbohydrates and proteins, making it a balanced snack between meals. Goji berries are particularly sensitive to oxidation and are collected and processed with a certain process that retains the nutrients. Commercially goji berries are available either in juice or as dried fruits.

Nutritional value

   Goji berries are very nutritious, that is why they considered as super fruits. Its caloric value is 100 kcal per 1/4 cup and provides plenty of trace minerals, minerals and vitamins. It is a rich source of vitamins, anthocyanidins, flavonoids, phytosterols and carotenoids.

   In particular, it contains minerals such as zinc, phosphorus and iron, vitamins of B complex, such as vitamins B1, B2, vitamin C, β-carotene as well as 18 amino acids. It contains carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids and fibers, making it a full and nutritious fruit.

Actions and properties

Energy and stimulation

Many studies have shown that Goji Berry is a natural stimulant of body. In particular, it has been shown that goji berries stimulate body and improve mood and gastrointestinal health. Thanks to the above findings, it is believed that goji berries may be an excellent food for athletes as it increases energy levels and therefore athletic performance.

Antioxidant protection and immune enhancement

Goji berry is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the body’s defense and helps protect cells from oxidative stress. Thanks to its composition in anthocyanidins, polysaccharides, carotenoids, vitamin C and vitamin A, it neutralizes free radicals by helping the body cope with colds and flu, while also helps prevent chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

Cardiovascular protection

Cardiovascular disease is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Atherosclerosis is characterized by increased oxidative stress and elevated serum cholesterol levels. Thanks to its strong antioxidant properties, Goji Berry protects the vessels from oxidative damage, while phytosterols have a positive effect on cholesterol levels.

Skin health

Rich in beta-carotene goji berry also contributes to skin health and protection. According to studies, it helps to protect the skin from the negative effects of solar radiation-UV, while its antioxidant effects provide protection against photoaging and skin cancer.

Eye protection

Goji berries contain carotenoids that are involved in eye protection and vision. As a rich source of zeaxanthin, goji berry protects vision and eyes from degenerative diseases and microvascular lesions. Specifically, according to studies, it can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, protect the retina, prevent glaucoma and damages caused by UV radiation and oxidative stress.

Slimming

There are reports that goji berry helps weight loss. Although such an action it is not yet confirmed, the low glycemic index and the high content in fibers can help to better manage hunger, while the zinc reduces the need for sweets.

Dosage and forms

   The therapeutic dosage ranges from 250-500 mg. However, as a dried fruit can be used in recipes, combined with fruits and yogurt. As dried fruits, goji berries have a high content in sugars, so people with diabetes or impaired glucose metabolism as well as people taking anticoagulants should consume them in moderation.

   In Vita4you you can find a wide variety of food supplements and foods with goji berry.

Iro Gounitsioti

Msc, Bsc Clinical Dietitian - Nutritionist specialized in obesity, diabetes management, athletic nutrition as well as in nutritional supplements.

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Disclaimer

The content of this blogspot is not and can not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All information is provided to readers solely for informational purposes. There is no intention to substitute this content for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, prognosis or treatment.

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Leave a comment

  1. Amar Choudhary says:

    After reading your amazing Post. I came to know many uses of Raisins. Keep Posting These types of Posts. Thank You.

  2. Theboyo says:

    Amazing post thank you for sharing it and tell us about goji berries.

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