Introduction
Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are small red fruits native to China and Tibet that have been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. In recent years, these tiny berries have surged in popularity due to their potential health benefits. The tart-sweet flavor and bright color of goji berries make them an appealing addition to smoothies, salads, and other dishes. But are goji berries actually good for you? Let’s take a look at the evidence.
Exploring How Goji Berries Contribute to Overall Wellness
Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. A one-ounce serving of dried goji berries contains:
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Iron
- Riboflavin
- Zinc
Goji berries also contain 18 amino acids and trace amounts of healthy fatty acids. In TCM, goji berries are believed to boost energy, improve circulation, and support overall wellness. According to TCM practitioners, consuming goji berries can help balance hormones, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation.
Investigating the Potential Side Effects of Consuming Goji Berries
Though goji berries are generally considered safe to eat, there have been reports of mild side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and dry mouth. Some people may also experience allergic reactions such as skin rashes or itching. Experts recommend starting with small amounts of goji berries and increasing consumption over time to give your body time to adjust.
It’s important to note that goji berries contain more sugar than some other fruits, so it’s important to practice moderation when eating them. For example, while a one-ounce serving of goji berries contains 9 grams of sugar, a one-ounce serving of blueberries only has 4 grams of sugar.
Latest Research on Goji Berries and Their Health Benefits
Recent studies have suggested that consuming goji berries may offer a range of health benefits. One study published in Nutrients found that goji berries may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Another study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that goji berry extract may help protect against age-related vision loss. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
In addition, researchers are exploring the potential of goji berries as a natural cancer treatment. Preliminary studies suggest that goji berry extract may be able to inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells. However, more research is needed to determine whether goji berries could be used to treat cancer in humans.
Conclusion
Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and modern science is beginning to uncover their potential health benefits. Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which may help reduce inflammation and improve overall wellness. Studies have also suggested that consuming goji berries may help protect against age-related vision loss and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
While goji berries are generally considered safe to eat, they may cause mild side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and dry mouth in some people. It’s also important to keep in mind that goji berries contain more sugar than some other fruits, so it’s important to practice moderation when eating them.
Overall, goji berries have a wide range of potential health benefits and may be worth adding to your diet. However, it’s important to speak to your doctor before making any major changes to your diet.
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