Used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, goji berries commonly come in dried form and look like small red raisins. These slightly bitter little berries also frequently show up in juices and smoothies. While some distributors may exaggerate goji's healing properties, these berries do have plenty of verified nutritional benefits.
Antioxidants
According to Brent Agin and Shereen Jegtvig in the book "Superfoods For Dummies," goji berries contain high levels of antioxidant vitamins, which protect the body's cells from inflammation and damage. Because of their protective properties, antioxidants may reduce a person's risk of diseases such as cancer. The authors further note that goji berries may help protect your heart as well, due to the presence of the cholesterol-lowering nutrient beta-sitosterol and betaine, which reduces homocysteine levels associated with heart disease.
Eye Health
Authors Agin and Jegtvig note that the presence of zeaxanthin and beta carotene in goji berries may help protect against macular degeneration, a progressive age-related eye disease. Both of these nutrients, called carotenoids, promote eye health and normal vision, and zeaxanthin specifically protects the retina.
More Benefits
According to Paul Gross, author of the book "Superfruits," goji berries contain a wide array of nutrients, some of which come close to or exceed the 100 percent daily value in a 100 gram serving. Goji's large amounts of vitamins A, C and B12, as well as the minerals copper, magnesium, selenium, zinc and potassium play a part in a host of healthy enzyme functions in the body. Because of this, says Gross, goji berries have the potential to influence most biological processes and may contribute to overall well-being.
Gene Bruno, Dean of Knoxville,Tennessee's Huntington College of Health Sciences further notes that goji berries have anti-fatigue properties, liver protective properties, immune-enhancing properties, neuroprotective properties, anti-diabetic properties and DNA protective properties.
Marketing Claims
"An extensive literature search failed to find scientific evidence to support marketing claims that Goji is the fountain of youth, or the most powerful anti-aging food, or that it is the most nutritionally dense food on the planet," says Gene Bruno. While Goji may not quite live up to the hype, Bruno contends that the berries still have many potential health benefits.
Warning
Authors Agin and Jegtvig warn that goji berries have blood thinning properties, and those taking blood thinners or heart medications should exercise caution. Speak with a doctor to ensure that consuming goji berries will not interfere with your medication and put your health in jeopardy.
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