Goji Berries
Goji berries are catching on in America. The July 24th issue of Time Magazine called Goji berry the "Breakout Superfruit of the Year." We are now importing thousands of tons of them a year which is being turned into all sorts of juices and miracle products.
Goji berries supply antioxidants and flavonoids in abundance. Goji berries contain more beta-carotene than carrots, more Iron than spinach and more protein than whole wheat (13 percent). Goji berries contain 21 trace minerals, including germanium - the anti cancer trace mineral rarely found in foods. Goji berries contain 18 amino acids, Vitamin E, and 500 times more Vitamin C by weight than oranges. Goji berries also contain vitamins B1, B2, and B6, which are necessary for converting food into energy.
There are a bunch of things that make the Gogi a powerhouse. Their ORAC score (oxygen radical absorption capacity) comes in at 30,000, compared to blueberries at 9,300. They are potentially 3 times the potency of blueberries!
The Goji berry comes stuffed with phenolics, which are another form of antioxidants. That's part of what gives them their bright red color. Antioxidants have been proven to be very beneficial in multiple venues, and the Goji berry is as potent as they come.
The Goji berry is a deep-red, dried fruit about the same size as a raisin. The Goji berry tastes somewhat like a cross between a cranberry and a cherry.
A good daily intake of Goji berries is 10-30 grams (a small handful). Goji berries may be used as snacks or mixed with recipes or smoothies like other dried fruits.
Nutritional Facts: 1/4 Cup Serving (Approx. 1 oz, 28 g), Calories 90, Fat 0g, Fiber 4g, Protein 4g, Carbs 24g, Sugars 12g, Vitamin A 180 percent, Vitamin C 30 percent, Calcium 9 percent and Iron 15 percent
Pure and Simple Goji Drink
In a big glass of hot or cold water, juice or herb tea add one handful of Goji Berries and let them sit and hydrate for a few minutes (they become plump and juicy) or put several handfuls in a pitcher and enjoy.
