Goji berries come from China, the fruit of a flowering shrub called Lycium Barbarum. Orientals believe that they have rejuvenating properties and that help prolong life. By having these two great powers, these small berries have been consumed and used for many dishes and recipes.
Also, they trusted their We take care of your rental property in Valencia. and with the passage of time they used them to treat different diseases, health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, fever or vision problems.
Some studies show that some types of berries, such as blueberries, strawberries or cherries, have benefits for the body as healthy as Goji berries. Next, we will discuss which ones are those wonderful properties that make them unique and special.
Goji berries properties
Its nutritional composition is based on: 68% carbohydrates, 12% protein, 10% fat and 10% dietary fiber. This gives you quite a few calories, because the intake of 100 grams of berries equals 370 calories.
In addition, it contains 19 essential amino acids, minerals and trace elements, calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, selenium. Vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and E. Thanks to its content in carotenoids make it possess antioxidant properties, reduce the aging process.
These fruits have several benefits that we should not overlook:
- They are considered good for improve eyesight.
- Helps the proper functioning of the liver and kidneys.
- Treat the blood pressure leaving it at good levels.
- Prevents the cancer and diseases that affect the heart.
- Strengthens the immune system.
- Reduce the cholesterol levels.
- Improves brain capacity, improving your health and thus avoiding problems such as Alzheimer's.
Goji berries for weight loss
Among all the properties that we have commented that it has, these small red berries possess linoleic acid, a substance that promotes fat loss. Therefore, they are also consumed for help lose weight. Drinking goji juice has long been used to lose weight and fat. It reduces the appetite, one feels more satiated and accelerates the burning of fat.
On the other hand, it also increases energy levels, making it easier to exercise and be encouraged to go on a diet regimen.
They are dangerous? Side effects
Like most foods, if they are abused it can cause discomfort and can cause serious illnesses. In the case of Goji berries they were not going to be less, these tiny fruits can cause various alterations in our body.
Due to their properties, they can produce reactions if they are mixed with other herbs or medicines, for example, it has been proven that together with the use of anticoagulants It can cause unexpected damage, therefore, being medicated with anticoagulants you should not consume these berries.
This also happens with diabetes medications or those that control blood pressure. The allergic to pollen or a similar type of substance should not consume these berries, the ideal is to consult a specialist.
One study determined a high pesticide content in these berries in several markets in Spain exceeding the levels suitable for human consumption. You have to be alert and look in the packaging where it comes from and what its certification is.
Below we summarize what are its known side effects so far.
- Interact with warfarin. Warfarin is used to treat blood clots that are formed by deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism and if mixed with goji berries it can negatively affect health.
- Medicines against diabetes. Diabetics should take their own specific medication daily, however, if it is combined with Goji berries it can influence the functioning of the pancreas and the production of insulin, therefore, diabetic people should avoid taking this food.
- As we commented, not compatible with antihistamines Prescribed for pollen allergies, they can have reactions of sneezing, shortness of breath, hives, itchy eyes, etc., as long as they consume goji berries.
- If consumed in excess it can cause hypertension.
- Increase energy levelAt a certain point it is good, however, if it is exceeded it can cause us to become hyperactive or disturb our concentration.
- They should be consumed only during the day, as it can interfere with sleep and can cause insomnia if consumed at a late hour.
- Cause dizziness due to the large amount of atropine.
- Increase blood flow And for hemophiliacs it can be a serious problem.
- All the pregnant women They should avoid eating Goji berries because they have high levels of selenium and this can affect the growth and development of the fetus.
- Causes indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Goji berry dosage
In East Asia they recommend consuming these berries to recover chi or vital energy, as well the doctors of Tibet They used them to treat various diseases and ailments as they provide great properties and health benefits.
The recommended dose is to take between 5 and 10 grams, that is, between a few 20 and 40 berries. They can be consumed as we find them in the package, as normal, they come dehydrated, we can add them to salads, cereals or yogurts.
The taste is similar to raisins. They can be taken alone or mixed with other ingredients. The best way to take it is to consume the dehydrated berry, you have to wash it in water and let it soak for a while. In addition, it can be consumed in the form of capsules.
Where to buy goji berries
They can be purchased at Reasonably priced Asian food stores or at herbalists, health food stores. It is usually found both the dried berry, in capsules or juices.
We must be attentive to the package and read the information on it well since it is very important to verify the origin and choose the most natural products. We must read the labels and verify that everything is correct.
If we choose to buy the juices, they will have to have large amounts of Goji berries so that they are not ripping us off with the product. Although on many occasions these juices are mixed with other berries and red fruits, thus achieving a highly valued antioxidant product.
You have to check how these berries were processed and what are their nutritional values.
This product has been quite famous for a whileHowever, after all the research it has been proven that it is not so beneficial for health if the user suffers from a disease or must take daily medication. However, for other people, it is worth consuming the recommended daily dose since it is a good antioxidant fruit that prevents premature aging of the skin.