Being low on energy, struggling with dull skin, or wanting a natural way to boost your immunity have become common concerns for many. Goji berries are the known superfood that nourishes your body inside and out nutritiously. These are red, gem-like beads full of antioxidants, vitamin C, fibre, iron, and amino acids that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Goji berry health benefits are known to support immunity, improve vision, enhance skin glow, and even aid in weight loss.
While they offer impressive health advantages, there are side effects, too. So, let’s explore the seven incredible goji berry health benefits, nutritional profile, and key precautions you need to consider before adding them!
Table Of Contents
1. What Are The Health Benefits Of Goji Berry? 7 Advantages
2. Is It Okay To Eat Goji Berries Every Day? Nutritional Profile
3. Who Should Not Eat Goji Berries? Precautions
4. The Final Say
5. FAQs
6. References
What Are The Health Benefits Of Goji Berry? 7 Advantages
Consider these goji berry health benefits for better wellness:
1. Reduce The Risk Of Illnesses And Chronic Diseases
The antioxidants, namely, zeaxanthin, vitamin C and carotenoids present in goji berries help lower oxidative stress, which defeats the risk of chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes and cancer. The protective compounds in goji berries remove damaging radicals, reducing cell inflammation.
- Prepare Goji Berry Antioxidant Smoothies using fresh or dried berries, yoghurt, and banana blended in almond milk.
2. Increases Immunity And Strengthens Bodily Functions
With nourishing nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc, and polysaccharides, goji berries strengthen the immune response through increased white blood cell creation and fortified gut integrity. Consuming goji berries improves the body's ability to combat infections, treat colds, and prevent seasonal allergies.
- Combining dried goji berries, honey, and ginger in an herbal tea ensures a comforting morning drink to boost immunity and health.
3. Supports Eye Health And Prevents Associated Issues
Nutritional compounds in goji berries, like zeaxanthin and lutein, function as natural defense mechanisms to shield the eyes from developing macular degeneration, cataracts, and vision loss connected to ageing processes. Goji berry nutrients defend your retina against blue light concerns and damaging oxidising agents.
- You can prepare a nourishing Goji Berry Chia Pudding by soaking chia seeds in almond milk, then add goji berries and honey to flavour the mixture with honey, promoting eye health.
4. Decreases Blood Lipid Concentration
The dietary consumption of goji berries results in reduced LDL cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol, which protects against cardiovascular diseases. Through their high fibre content, these berries help digestion and stop cholesterol deposits from forming in your arteries.
- A breakfast consisting of a Goji Berry Oatmeal Bowl containing oats, nuts, and ToneOp Care’s Flax Seeds, together with goji berries, provides an ideal way to control cholesterol in a heart-healthy manner.
Try ToneOp Care's BP Care Combo to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight. This clinically-proven combination of supplements, including Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic Oil Capsules, Black Seed Oil Capsules, flaxseed oil, omega-3 Fish Oil Capsules, and Wheatgrass Powder, improves overall cardiac health.
5. Promotes Sexual Health And Fertility
Goji berries enhance libido and reproductive health in both men and women. Their rich antioxidants improve sperm quality, increase testosterone levels, and support hormonal balance. Women who include these foods to increase fertility and wellness benefit from improved ovarian function and better blood circulation to reproductive organs.
- Snack on small nutritious balls with goji berries, almonds, dates, and grated coconut, which can naturally enhance reproductive health.
6. Balances Blood Sugar Levels
With a low glycemic index plus high fibre content, goji berries help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down glucose absorption, making them beneficial for diabetics. They also improve insulin sensitivity, reducing spikes in blood sugar levels.
- A Goji Berry yoghurt parfait, layered with yoghurt, granola, and fresh goji berries, provides a satisfying, blood-sugar-friendly snack that supports metabolic health.
Also Read: Blood Sugar Charts By Age And Gender! Know Your Vitals And Identify Your Health Condition
7. Helps In Managing Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome, a combination of excess obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance, can be managed with goji berries due to their ability to enhance metabolism and burn fat. These are the best fruits for weight loss, helping reduce belly fat, improving digestion, and preventing energy crashes.
- Stay energised with Goji Berry Detox Water, a metabolism-boosting drink made from dried goji berries soaked overnight in water along with lemon slices and mint.
Also Read: Anti-Inflammatory Diet Plan And Tips to Reduce Inflammation
Is It Okay To Eat Goji Berries Every Day? Nutritional Profile
Yes, it is safe for all healthy adults to eat goji berries every day in moderation. Due to their high nutrient plus antioxidant content, they offer many health benefits.
General Recommendations for Daily Intake:
- Dried Goji Berries: A common recommendation is nearly 2 tablespoons (approximately 20-30 grams) per day.
- Goji Berry Juice: Around 120 ml per day is recommended.
Nutritional Profile of Goji Berries (per 100g)
Nutrient | Amount |
Energy | 306 kcal / 1289 kJ |
Carbohydrate | 49 g |
Fibre | 13 g |
Protein | 13 g |
Vitamin C | 25 mg |
Potassium | 1100 mg |
Iron | 5 mg |
Also Read: What Is A Raw Food Diet 10 Amazing Benefits | ToneOp Fit
Who Should Not Eat Goji Berries? Precautions
While goji berry health benefits are immense, if you fall in the following categories, you should exercise caution or avoid them altogether:
1. People Taking Certain Medications
- Blood Thinners (e.g., Warfarin): Goji berries increase the risk of bleeding by increasing the blood-thinning effects.
- Blood Pressure Medications: Goji berries lower blood pressure, and taking them with blood pressure medication could cause it to drop too low.
- Diabetes Medications: Goji berries lower blood sugar counts. Combining them with diabetes medication leads to hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar).
- Medications Metabolised by the Liver: Goji berries affect how quickly the liver processes certain drugs, increasing their effects or side effects.
2. Pregnant And Breastfeeding Women
- Goji berries contain betaine, a compound that might cause uterine contractions, so pregnant women must avoid them.
- There isn't enough reliable information to determine if goji berries are safe for breastfeeding women, so it's best to avoid them.
3. Individuals With Allergies
- People with known allergies to other foods (e.g., tomatoes, sweet potatoes, eggplants), tobacco, peaches, plus nuts are allergic to goji berries. Allergic reactions, like skin rashes, consistent itching, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
4. People With Low Blood Pressure
- Since goji berries can lower blood pressure, people with already low blood pressure should consume them cautiously as it could drop too low.
5. Individuals With Bleeding Disorders
- Due to the interaction with blood clotting, people with bleeding disorders must be cautious.
Also Read: 10 Foods Diabetics Should Avoid for Better Health
The Final Say
So, there you have it! A goji berry's health benefits are immense, given its high nutrients and goodness for wellness. Adding goji berries to smoothies, fruit salads, or meals is beneficial for getting a nutritional boost in a tasty and healthier way. Just follow mindful eating and make the most of what they offer.
FAQs
1. Are goji berries better fresh or dried?
Both fresh and dried berries offer good nutrition. Fresh ones are juicy, but they don't last long. Dried goji berries last much longer, making them easy to add to your meals anytime.
2. Are goji berries high in sugar?
Not really! Goji berries have natural sugars, giving them a slightly sweet taste. However, many other dried fruits or sugary snacks aren't considered very high in sugar. Eat them in moderation.
3. Is goji berry good for the skin?
Yes, goji berries are good for your skin! They are full of antioxidants plus vitamin C, which protect your skin cells from damage and keep it healthy for a glowing complexion.
References
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/goji-berry-benefits/
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/goji-berries-health-benefits-and-side-effects
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322693#:~:text=Is%20it%20safe%20to%20eat,pressure%20medications%2C%20and%20diabetes%20drugs.
- https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/health/nutrition/health-benefits-of-goji-berries
- https://www.sutterhealth.org/ask-an-expert/answers/the-health-benefits-of-goji-berries
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