Goji berry’s healthful history

There is an old Chinese tale told about a village where people never became ill. A bush with spreading vines grew beside the village well, dropping its berries into the water. Village elders determined the berries added nourishing elements to the drinking water, keeping everyone healthy. Whether this was the first clue to the goji berry’s vast nutritional resources is unknown, but it’s certain that gojis are positively packed with nutrients and phytochemicals.

In traditional Chinese medicine, goji berries are believed to enhance a person’s longevity, build strength, and aid sexual potency. Research has yet to confirm any health claims with regard to goji berries, and some foreign sources of the berry show pesticide contamination, but the little fruit is generally considered a superfood, as it is a rich source of:

• Antioxidants which enhance functioning of the immune system, contribute to the wellness of the kidneys and liver, and help guard against free radicals associated with cancer and the aging process.
• Carotenoids, especially beta-carotene, which helps prevent cataracts and heart disease, plus zeaxanthin, a dietary carotenoid which improves eye function.
• Vitamins B1, B2, B6 and E, which are all essential to a range of good body health from processing amino acids and fats, to converting carbohydrates to energy.
• 11 amino acids and 22 trace minerals including zinc, iron, copper, calcium, and selenium.
• Polysaccharides which fortify the immune system, treat inflammation, and help reduce some forms of skin disease.

Easy tips to get more goji

Are goji berries the new raisin? Naturally dried and delicious, the small, chewy red–orange berries taste like a cross between cranberries and cherries. Whether eaten by the handful or tossed into salads and smoothies, goji berries are versatile and tasty with a tangy–sweet flavour. While there is no prescribed daily amount, a small handful or 1/4 cup (approximately .40 grams) is considered an average portion.

• Mix into the fruit filling for a blueberry, raspberry, peach, rhubarb, or strawberry pie or crumble.
• Toss into a wild rice salad or rice stuffing instead of dried cranberries.
• Substitute for raisins in trailmix.
• Stir into a morning bowl of oatmeal or other hot cereal.
• Blend into a puréed carrot–orange soup.