Goji Berries – The
Little Red Superfruit
The shriveled
red Goji berry doesn’t look like much at first, but this Himalayan fruit,
otherwise known in Tibet as the “key to eternal youth”, is a superfood packed
with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. You can add it to almost any meal, it
tastes delicious, and it may add some pep to your step.
Chinese
medicine has known about this berry, Lycium barbarum, or “wolfberry”, for many
years, and it’s used as an herbal remedy to treat many age related ailments, as
it’s been known to treat the root and essence of the body, the kidneys, and the
liver, which stores blood. You can eat it alone or along with other herbs that
boost the benefits to create a formula specific to your individual needs. Your
acupuncturist is the best person to assess and create a formula for you.
The Goji has
21 minerals, including beta carotene, and trace elements. It also has a
powerful antioxidant called zeaxanthin, B vitamins, and has more vitamin C than
oranges. The Goji berry also has fiber so you feel full (hello weight loss!)
and has about 13% protein depending on the dosage. The Goji contains lutein,
which benefits the eyes, as well as the mentioned beta carotene which also
benefits the eyes and skin.
What all of
these nutrients tell us is that this berry helps keep the blood more alkaline,
white blood cells are fortified along with your immune system, and all the
amino acids, vitamins and minerals means oxygen is transported nicely through
the body. So what do you get? Well-being, more energy, vitality, stronger
immunity, and healthy eyes.
The Goji
berry tastes sweet and a bit sour and is bright in color. It’s best to buy
organic and good quality berries, or you can grow your own.
Some benefits
may include improved vision, more energy, lowering of bad cholesterol,
increased energy, better sleep, weight loss, improved hair thickness and
luster, and less dryness. Goji berries also may help fight depression.
You can
include these berries in trail mixes, cereals, or salads, or just eat them
straight from your hand. How much to eat to stay healthy? The answer to that
depends on your individual needs and palate. Start with a few grams, then a
handful, and go from there according to how you feel and what your body is in
the mood for.
Goji berries
belong to the nightshade family, foods that contain solanine. These foods
include tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplant. Some individuals, like those
who have arthritis, may have an allergy to these foods and it is not
recommended for them in that case. If you are taking some medications like
blood thinners, blood pressure medication, or diabetes medicine this berry may
not be right for you. It also is a “warming” food, so refrain if you have a
fever or the flu. If you are fine with those foods and don’t run too hot, go
ahead and indulge in what might become your favorite berry. Benefits may vary depending on the
individual, and it’s best to start with a smaller amount and see how you feel.
If these aren’t for you, you can also try similar foods like the acai berry,
elderberry, or tart cherries. It’s best to eat them by themselves instead of in
a juice with other fruits.
Bishara Wilson
New York Sports Acupuncture
888.375.5444
No comments:
Post a Comment