Gogi is a red berry that have a raisin-like appearance and a flavor similar to cranberries. It is of great interest to scientists because of its extremely high content of antioxidants--substances that protect the body from free radical cell damage. According to Oracvalues.com, the gogi berry has an orac value of 25,300 compared to a score of 6,552 for blueberries, which are also considered high in antioxidants. ORAC is a standard of measurement developed by the National Institute of Health as a measurement of free radical absorption. With a ORAC score of 25,300, the consumption of gogi juice can have great health benefits.
Cardiovascular Health
According to the publication "Superfoods: The Food and Medicine of the Future" by David Wolfe, the consumption of goji has benefits to support cardiovascular health. Goji has the ability to protect the body against oxidized cholesterol which is a major factor in heart disease. Cholesterol becomes more dangerous when it is oxidized with free radicals. Superoxide Dismutase is the enzyme in the body that prevents cholesterol from oxidizing. Goji consumption increases levels of superoxide disumutase in the body, thus reducing oxidized cholesterol in the body and lowering the risk for heart disease.
Vision Benefits
Consumption of gogi juice may be beneficial in preserving healthy vision. Gogi juice contains extremely high levels of beta carotene. According to MayoClinic.com, when beta carotene is consumed it is converted to retinol. Retinol is a chemical that is essential for proper vision and it is eventually broken down into retinoic acid, which is used in processes involving growth and cell differentiation.
Anti Aging Properties
According to Superfoods by David Wolfe, consumption of gogi may allow individuals to look younger, feel better and even live longer. Gogi contains substances called sesquiterpenoids. Sesquiterpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties and promote the production of human growth hormone in the body. As the body ages the production of human growth hormone decreases. Human growth hormone levels must be kept high in order to achieve a long life span. Gogi also contains the amino acids l-arginine and l-glutamine. The amino acids boost hormone production to elevate metabolism and revitalize appearance.
Increased Immunity
According to "Superfoods" by David Wolfe, gogi contains three components that are beneficial in boosting the immune system and fighting disease. These three components are beta carotene, germanium, and polysaccharides. Polysaccharides improve the immune system and prevent cells from mutations. Beta carotene stimulates the thymus gland for increased production of interferon which protects the body against viruses. Germanium may be protective of some form of cancer such as cervical, lung and testicular cancers.
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