Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, have been valued for their culinary and medicinal properties in Tibet, China, and Mongolia for thousands of years. Goji berries grow in the subtropical regions of China and Mongolia. They are a member of the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. The interest in goji berries is rising as a result of recently touted nutritional benefits.
Nutrition Facts
A 28 g or 5 tbsp. serving of dried goji berries contains 112 calories. These calories are comprised of 1.6 g of fat, 24 grams of carbohydrates and 1 g of protein. Based on a 2,000 calorie diet, a 28 g serving of goji berries will equal 5 percent of your daily caloric intake, 8 percent of your daily carbohydrate requirement and 2 percent of your daily fat requirement.
Vitamins and Minerals
Gogi berries are a rich source of vitamin C. One 28 g serving contains 12 mg of vitamin C. In addition, this serving contains 2.16 mg of iron, 80 mg of calcium and 8500 IU of vitamin A. Goji berries also contain 18 amino acids, including all 8 essential amino acids. Essential amino acids are those that your body cannot produce on its own.
Research
Overall it appears goji berries are a healthy addition to your diet. According to Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, faculty of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, although animal studies look promising there is very little clinical research with humans to draw on. Therefore, you should be cautious of health claims regarding of goji-based products. In addition, there may be an interaction between goji berries and warfarin, therefore if you take this medication consult your doctor before adding goji berries to your diet.
Caution
Different berries may have slightly different nutritional information because some goji berries belong to a different species. Where the berries are grown and what type of soil they are grown in will also be factors in determining their nutritional value.
References
- Goji Guide; Goji Juice
- "Alternative and Complementary Therapies"; Smart Talk on Suppliments and Botanicals: Exotic Fruits---Acai, Noni, Mangosteen, Sea Buckthorn, and Goji; Dr Tieraona Low Dog; 2009
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