Himalania Goji Berry Nutritional Value

Himalania Goji Berry Nutritional Value
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From sea salt to berries, the Himalayas produce some of the most nutritional foods on the planet. Himalania goji berries are quickly becoming known around the world as a superfood, providing some of the highest levels of nutrient values available from a natural source. With medicinal properties that have been used by Asians for thousands of years, Himalania goji berries are a staple in Tibetan and Chinese diets.

History

The use of goji berries is believed to date to 2,800 B.C., when the first great Chinese herbalist, Shen Nong, advocated their powerful effects. Since then, herbalist doctors have been using them to "preserve people's health." According to Himalania.com, this berry is known as a national treasure in China, where it is classified as an herb. Organically grown by local Chinese farmers, Himalania goji berries are certified 100 percent organic by the USDA.

Calories, Fat and Carbohydrates

Himalania goji berries contain 150 calories and no fat per 40g serving. Of the 32g of total carbohydrates found in each serving of goji berries, 30g come from sugar. These highly concentrated polysaccharides -- complex carbohydrates -- activate proteins in the immune system, warding off diseases.

Proteins and Amino Acids

With 5g of proteins per serving, Himalania goji berries provide 18 amino acids. Eight of the amino acids are essential -- they must be consumed through the diet and are vital to your body's daily functioning.

Vitamins and Minerals

Goji berries are rich in vitamins and minerals, providing 21 trace minerals. They trump carrots' beta carotene levels, spinach's iron dosage and oranges' vitamin C. Himalania goji berries are also a source of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and E. The minerals zinc and selenium are abundant in them, helping prevent cell damage and rebuilding cells that were previously damaged.

Antioxidants

The ORAC scale -- oxygen radical absorbance capacity -- rates foods based on their availability of antioxidants. Goji berries are rated at the top of the list, surpassing blueberries, pomegranates, mangosteen and acai. Because of antioxidants' ability to fight free radicals, these berries also aid in combating effects of aging and diseases caused by free radicals.

Methods

Although available in fresh, frozen, dried or juice versions, Himalania goji berries are most often consumed in the dried form. Add them to your salad, rice dish and trail mix, or eat them by the handful to add nutrient-rich flavor to your diet.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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