Grown originally in regions of China, Mongolia and Tibet, Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. The go-go Goji Berry, also known as the Wolfberry (Lycium barbarum) is now being hailed as one of the Top 10 Superfoods that we can get our hot little hands on.
So why do we love the Goji Berry?
- They pack a punch of protein for their wee little size. One serving of dried goji berries (roughly 1/4 cup) contains about 4g of protein. This means snacking on these berries throughout the day is a great way to increase your total protein intake. Remember, Protein becomes hormones, enzymes and antibodies that help our body to maintain functionality as well as rebuild and regenerate. Try making your own trail mix at home with goji berries and your favourite nuts and seeds. This will help maintain energy levels throughout the day too!
- A, B, C … easy as one, two, three… simple as do-re-mi! Goji berries are loaded with Antioxidants including Vitamins A, B and C. Vitamin A helps improve poor vision, keeps our skin and mucous membranes healthy and helps with our immune system. Vitamin B complexescan help improve kidney and liver function, boost energy levels, circulation, metabolism and our mood. And we all know that Vitamin C is seriously good for our immune system but it also helps with the production of collagen to give us that youthful glow as well as helping to reduce free radicals that can cause cancer and heart disease.
- They have iron! Iron is super important contingent on the amount you consume daily because it helps carry oxygen in the blood and transport it throughout our body from one cell to another. Iron also helps with muscle function and helps to increase the development of the brain. If this wasn’t enough iron helps regulate our body temperature, boosts metabolism and helps fight fatigue. Yes Please.
- Goji berries are a source of Fibre, which as we know helps to keep our digestive tracts clean and healthy. Fibre sweeps out those unwanted and nasty toxins which helps with our overall immunity. It will also help you to feel fuller for longer. Curb those 3pm cravings with this delicious Goji Goodness Protein Smoothie.
SIDE NOTE: There are so many reasons to love the Goji Berry. But it is important to remember that there are some people who cannot enjoy them. One size does not fit all! Goji berries could interact with some medication like blood thinners, diabetes, or blood pressure medication. So please remember to talk to your doctor first.
Go get your Goji On!
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Ameaka Jane
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