Introducing the Goji berry

The Goji berry has been acclaimed a natural health elixir by health experts all over. The medicinal properties of this humble berry have been a secret confined to the Himalayan areas of Asia - Mongolia, China and Tibet. For thousands of years, traditional medicine in these areas has included this ingredient in the treatment of various diseases and also as a garnish in food. Recent research and studies by western experts have pointed out various health benefits of this wonder fruit.

Of course, with any new discovery, a lot of exaggerated claims are made and this fruit is no exception. It has been claimed to cure anything from cancer to impotence. Though many such unsupported claims exist, they should not be allowed to blemish its reputation, which has been used in medicine for thousands of years. Here are some proven health benefits of this natural wonder.

Nutrient Content

Goji berries have a very high nutrition content. A normal daily serving of this berry has more vitamin C than an equivalent serving of orange, (it is also a good source of the B vitamins), higher amounts of betacarotene than an equivalent serving of carrots and higher iron content than an equivalent serving of steak. They have also been found to be antioxidant rich - it is hard to miss the term "free radicals" these days; these harmful substances damage useful cells of the human body. Antioxidants have been found to be the best combatants of free radicals. In addition to all this, they are also good sources of polysaccharides which have been proven to strengthen the functioning of the human immune system, potassium, and have as many as eighteen different types of amino acids required by the body. So, in short, this berry is a nutrient mine, with enough nutritious content to take care of the immune system, keep skin healthy and glowing and aid in the maintenance of a healthy heart.

Cancer Cure?

Now let's take a look at that cancer curing claim; No, Goji berries can't just miraculously cure cancer. That is just a load of tosh. What they have been proven to do is fight cancer due to their very high antioxidant content. In addition, they have been found to contain Germanium, which has been known to have anti-cancer properties. Studies conducted in Japan have shown that this substance is efficacious in the treatment of cancers of the lung, cervix, liver, testicles and uterus. Another interesting point to note is the finding that these berries have the capability to increase production of g-interferon in the body. Research has proved that this substance is successful at destroying cancerous cells in the body.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are innumerable researches and clinical trials going on to test the effectiveness of the Goji berry's extract in the treatment of various ailments. One thing is for certain though; it certainly won't hurt to include a small serving of this super-fruit everyday at breakfast!


For more information please follow this link to Healthy Foods to Eat