Notes: 
Studied extensively in modern times to substantiate its health benefits, with over 15% protein (more than Whole Wheat), 18 amino acids (6x that of bee pollen), Beta-Carotene (more than Carrots), Vitamin C (more than Oranges), lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) and 21 essential minerals, goji berries are a nutrient-dense superfood in a class all its own.
The Amazing Health Benefits of the Goji Berry
Dr. Kristie - There’s a tasty little berry that’s gaining a solid reputation as powerful promoter of good health. The official name for this berry is Lycium barbarum, but it’s more commonly known as the goji berry. The goji berry has a long history, having been used in Chinese medicine for 6,000 years to treat a variety of medical problems as well as to promote longevity. What are the purported health benefits of the goji berry?
One of the most compelling health benefits of the goji berry is its ability to protect visual health. Some of the beneficial biochemicals found in the goji berry include beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals. Zeaxanthin in particular has been shown to help maintain healthy vision by reducing the risk of developing age related macular degeneration which can lead to blindness.
The goji berry is rich source of antioxidants, including the powerful carotenoids that have been shown in some studies to have cancer preventative properties. The antioxidants found in the goji berry have also been shown in preliminary research studies to reduce cholesterol and lower blood sugar levels.
There are various ways you can take advantage of the benefits of the goji berry. These include eating the raw or cooked berry, adding goji berry powder to different food and drink preparations, drinking goji berry juice, and taking goji berry extract. Most of the demonstrated health benefits of the goji berry have focused on the raw goji berry, although it would seem likely that the juice, powder, and extract would have some of the same healthy properties.
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Goji Berries - Nathan Zassman
Goji berries, also called wolfberries, or Lycium Barbarum (latin), are a member of the Solanaceae (nightshade) family. In China, goji is known as Gou Qi Zi. Goji berries are one of the most nutrient dense foods. Goji berries have been used in China for thousands of years as a traditional medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including cancer and hypertension, while increasing white blood cells and boosting the immune system.
The high ORAC value (antioxidant level), combined with specific antioxidants including zeaxanthin and beta carotene support the traditional use of goji berries as a treatment for vision problems, including macular degeneration, cataracts and retinopathy. Other traditional uses include treatment for sexual dysfunction and infertility, improve liver function, mood (Goji berries are often called "happy berries," as they are supposed to make those that eat them happy), and to improve circulation.
Goji Berries may be consumed fresh or dried, and have a mild taste that is not as sweet as most dried fruits. Often added to soups and Chinese hot pots, goji berries are unusually high in protein for a dried fruit (over 15%), and contain Vitamin B1, B2, B6, and Vitamin E. Goji berries are thought to originate in Tibet or Mongolia. Mainland China, especially the Ninxia province, is well known for growing high quality Goji Berries.
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Health Disclaimer. Aviva is your source for goji berries and goji products in Canada and the USA. We also offer a goji juice, GojiSplash from Nu-Life, and a goji tinture from SpagoMed.
Copyright ©2008. Published with permission. Dr. Kristie is a freelance writer and not affiliated with Aviva.ca.
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