These reddish berries are originating in China and are used in traditional medicine for a long time, to improve eyesight, prevent diabetes, high blood pressure, strengthen the immune system and relieve symptoms of fatigue.
Although there are little clinical trials in humans to prove their effectiveness, goji berries proved undeniable, indisputable qualities in experiments on animals.
Goji – health benefits
Goji is distinguished by the increased content of antioxidants, especially carotenoids, which have the ability to reduce the risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness among people over 55 years. These antioxidants protect the body from oxidative stress, reduce tiredness and strengthens its ability to protect the body against harmful agents, thereby decreasing the risk of cancer.
Goji berries can be consumed raw, cooked or dried (like raisins), as well as tea, juices or medicinal drinks.
Also, Goji is rich in vitamin A, which protects the skin and helps maintain the nighttime visual acuity.
The vitamin B complex in goji may have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health as well, protecting you from heart palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias and hypertension.
In addition, goji berries are a rich source of fiber (3 grams to a portion of 28 grams of fruit), which helps during the detoxification processes and have only 100 calories for one serving, which turns them into trustworthy allies in diets.
Goji – beauty benefits
The increased antioxidant amount from goji berries helps prevent premature skin aging. Goji nourishes the skin in depth, strengthens the processes of skin defense against free radicals and deeply cleans the pores.
The stars are in love with these magical fruits, Christina Aguilera, Gisele Bundchen and Salma Hayek being among the celebrities who love eating goji, using them for cosmetic masks as well.
Beta-carotene in goji can successfully combat skin spots, acne and accelerates the healing process of dermatitis.
Goji – contraindications
Eating goji is contraindicated when you are taking a blood thinner, as these fruits can cancel the effect of the medicines. Also not recommended in case of allergies to pollen. There were some situations where goji berries have caused photosensitivity and eczema on the skin after sun exposure.
People with kidney disease are advised not to eat large amounts of goji, as these fruits contain high amounts of oxalates, which prevents the absorption of calcium in the bones and promotes kidney stones.
