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Goji berries are fruits whose action and healing properties have been used in natural medicine in Asian countries for over 2500 years. Recommended are, among others in the treatment of rheumatism and with a decrease in immunity. Goji berries are called the red diamonds of the East and belong to superfoods, or "superfoods".

Goji berriesis the fruit of a Chinese plant called wolfberry ( Lycium barbarum L. ), also known as scarlet goji, which is a close relative of the Chinese wolfberry ( Lycium chinese L.- has nothing to do with our wolfberry which is poisonous).

However, the name "goji" refers only to the fruit of the Tibetan wolfberry ( Lycium barbarum L. ) - this is its trade name. The wolfberry belongs to the nightshade family, which is the same as peppers, tomatoes, potatoes and eggplants.

Goji berries growing in the Tibetan valleys and in the Himalayas are the he althiest because they are grown in areas unpolluted by pollution or pesticides. Cultivars grown in warm and subtropical countries such as Japan, Korea and other Southeast Asia and Europe have lower nutritional and medicinal value.

Contents:

  1. Goji berries can inhibit the progression of cancer
  2. Goji berries can lower sugar levels
  3. Goji berries for high blood pressure and cholesterol
  4. Goji berries - contraindications
  5. Goji berries for he althy eyes
  6. Goji berries can protect the liver
  7. Goji berries - use in the kitchen

Goji berries can inhibit the progression of cancer

Goji berries are a very good source of protein, which consists of as many as 18 amino acids. In addition, they contain carbohydrates and fats, including 5 unsaturated fatty acids from the omega-6 group, responsible for the production of hormones, the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system.

In addition, they are a source of many vitamins and minerals, including:

  • vitamin C
  • vitamins B1
  • vitamin B2
  • vitamin B6
  • phosphorus
  • calcium
  • selenium
  • iron
  • copper
  • zinc

as well as carotenoids and polyphenolic compounds, among which they constitute the most numerous groupflavonoids.

Goji berries, however, have a much more valuable ingredient. It is a water-soluble bioactive polysaccharide complex LBP ( Lycium Barbarumpolysaccharides). The results of many studies indicate its stimulating effect on the immune system, antioxidant and, above all, anti-cancer properties.

Research shows that the LBP complex inhibits the growth of human gastric cancer cells (MGC-803 and SGC-7901 cell lines), human colon cancer cells SW480 and Caco-2, and lung cancer cells, inducing their apoptosis, i.e. death cellular.

It also significantly inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and effectively inhibits the growth of human breast cancer cells (MCF-7 cell line).

This complex also has antiproliferative (multiplication inhibition) properties against human hepatoma QGY7703 cells, and also contributes to the apoptosis of HL-60 leukemic cells.

Dried goji berries are also valuable!
  • Energy value - 349 kcal
  • Total protein - 14.26 g
  • Fat - 0.39 g
  • Carbohydrates - 77.06 g (including simple sugars 45.61 g)
  • Fiber - 13.0 g
  • Vitamin C - 48.4 mg
  • Vitamin A - 26822 IU
  • Calcium - 190 mg
  • Iron - 6.80 mg
  • Sodium - 298 mg

Data Source: USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference

Goji berries can lower sugar levels

Animal studies have shown that the group of the above-mentioned polysaccharide compounds stimulates the proliferation of pancreatic β cells and increases the uptake of glucose in peripheral tissues.

The hypoglycemic effect of goji berries has been confirmed by other scientists, whose studies show that administration of the LBP polysaccharide complex may reduce hyperglycemia in diabetic animals.

In addition, it has been observed that the LBP complex can improve insulin sensitivity and thus reduce insulin resistance.

Goji berries for high blood pressure and cholesterol

Goji berries contain cyperon, which is beneficial for the heart and blood pressure, and betaine, which is used to produce choline, a substance that plays a role in preventing heart disease.

In addition, they contain β-sitosterol and the LBP complex - substances that lower cholesterol. The he alth-promoting effect of goji berries is confirmed by studies on rats with hyperlipidemia.

They show that the fruit of wolfberry significantly reduces the level of triglycerides, total cholesterol and "bad" LDL cholesterol in the blood serum, and also contributes to an increase in the level of"Good" HDL cholesterol.

The presence of vitamin C is also important, which also has a beneficial effect on the work of the circulatory system. Some sources report that 100 g of dried, ripe goji berries contain as much as 2500 mg.

Goji berries - contraindications

You shouldn't eat more than 5-12 g of dried goji berries a day.

Goji berry should not be consumed by people taking anticoagulant medications. People taking other medications and / or struggling with diseases should be careful and consult a doctor before reaching for goji berries.

Contraindications to eating goji berries are also pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Besides, you should not eat fresh, unripe fruit, as it may lead to poisoning, which is manifested by disturbance of the digestive tract and nervous system functions. Fortunately, you can only buy dried fruit in Poland.

Goji berries for he althy eyes

The red-orange color of the fruit is the result of the high content of carotenoids, including zeaxanthin (accounting for over 70% of the total carotenoid content in fruit, although other sources say 31-56%) and lutein.

Lutein and zeaxanthin have antioxidant properties and protect the retina from damage caused by free radicals. Their deficiency in the diet may be one of the risk factors for the development of AMD, i.e. macular degeneration.

In addition, lutein is able to absorb visible blue light and thus protects the eye structures against dangerous doses of visible and UV radiation.

Goji berries can protect the liver

Tibetans have been using goji berries for years in therapies to help cleanse the liver of toxins and improve digestion. Recently, scientists decided to investigate their influence on the work of this organ.

Studies in mice show that the polysaccharide complex contained in goji berries inhibits oxidative liver damage caused by a high-fat diet.

Read also about other super foods:

  • Aronia. What are the he alth properties of chokeberry juice?
  • Berries support the treatment of many diseases
  • American blueberries - healing properties

Goji berries - use in the kitchen

Goji berries taste similar to cranberries, but are less sweet and more tart. Additionally, they have a hint of tomato and herbal flavor.

Goji berries can be eaten like raisins or other dried fruits, i.e. raw. However, remember not to overdo them, especially since they are not low-calorie (they have 370 kcal per 100g).

In Chinese cuisine, dried goji berries are boiled before consumption. They are then added to rice, soups, chicken and pork or mixed with vegetables.

You can also prepare herbal tea from boiled dried goji berries, to which Chinese chrysanthemum flowers are added in Asia. Dried wolfberry fruits also go well with red tea.

In addition, goji berries are used to produce juices, wines, tinctures and supplements in the form of powders and tablets.

Category:

Alternative medicine