The Health Benefits of Goji Berries: A Powerful Superfood
Why goji berries? If you constantly feel tired, have low energy, or are way too often feeling sick, try adding these berries to your diet and feel tons better!
Goji berries have been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine. They are believed to have incredible health benefits ranging from boosting the immune system, to increasing energy levels, and improving the quality of sleep.
avicmart, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons (image cropped)
These powerful superfoods are rich in a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, iron, dietary fiber, and amino acids.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most significant health benefits of these berries…
Why Goji Berries? 5 Beneficial Reasons
1. Boosts the Immune System
Our immune systems are the first line of defense to fight off any infection or disease.
The human body is a marvel of engineering. One of its most incredible features is the immune system, an intricate network of cells, tissues, and organs that defends against infection and disease.
This system is constantly patrolling our bodies, searching for any intruders that could potentially harm us. When it detects a threat, it springs into action, launching a full-scale attack on the invaders.
White blood cells, the primary defenders of the immune system, swarm around the infected area, neutralizing any pathogens they encounter. Meanwhile, other cells release chemicals that signal the rest of the immune system to join the fight.
It’s a complex and fascinating process that keeps us healthy and safe from harm.
The high levels of antioxidants, vitamin C, and polysaccharides found in goji berries make them an excellent food for strengthening our immune systems.
Regular consumption can help to prevent illness and reduce inflammation in the body.
2. Improves Energy Levels
Our bodies are remarkable machines that require a specific mix of nutrients to function properly. One such combination that plays an essential role in energy production is vitamin C and iron.
Vitamin C is known for its potent antioxidant properties, but it also plays a critical role in helping our bodies absorb iron. Without vitamin C, iron would be difficult to assimilate and utilize, resulting in a decreased ability to produce energy.
Iron, on the other hand, is a key ingredient in making red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout our bodies. Without adequate iron, our bodies would be starved of the oxygen needed to fuel all the metabolic processes that keep us going.
Goji berries are a great natural solution to increase energy levels and improve overall vitality. They have high levels of vitamin C and iron that help our bodies to absorb and utilize the nutrients we need for energy production.
So, next time you hear or read about the importance of vitamin C and iron, take note: these nutrients are the unsung heroes that keep our bodies humming with energy.
3. Promotes Healthy Skin
Our skin is our largest organ and serves as the first line of defense against environmental toxins. However, the effects of pollution, UV rays, and other toxins can be detrimental to our skin.
These harmful elements can damage our skin’s natural barrier function, causing dryness, inflammation, and premature aging.
Air pollution, for instance, can lead to the formation of free radicals that attack collagen and elastin, two vital components in keeping our skin firm and plump.
Exposure to UV rays can also break down collagen and exacerbate the production of melanin. This can lead to hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Goji berries are a rich source of antioxidants that help to protect our skin from these harmful substances. Consuming them helps keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
It’s essential to acknowledge the impact of these environmental factors on our skin’s health and take necessary steps to protect it. Include antioxidant-rich whole foods, such as these berries, and use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and practice good skincare habits.
That’s how we can minimize the negative effects of exposure to pollution, UV rays and toxins.
4. Supports Eye Health
As we age, our bodies undergo many changes, and unfortunately, our eyesight is not exempt from this process. As we get older, our eyes lose the ability to focus on close objects, and our ability to see in low light conditions diminishes.
If you’re looking to protect your eyesight as you age, adding these wonderful berries to your diet is a great place to start.
They contain high levels of zeaxanthin and lutein, two powerful antioxidants essential for maintaining healthy vision and preventing age-related eye conditions.
These age-related changes are due to a number of factors, including:
- changes in the structure of the eye
- decreased blood flow to the eyes
- decrease in the number of light-sensitive cells in the retina
But don’t worry, while we may not be able to stop the hands of time, we can certainly take steps to help preserve our eyesight as we age.
5. Aids in Weight Loss
Have you ever found yourself feeling hungry even after having a full meal? It can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to maintain a healthy diet.
The reason behind this lingering hunger may lie in the types of food you’re consuming. Processed snacks and sugary drinks can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, leading to a crash later on and leaving you feeling famished.
Another culprit could be the lack of protein and fiber in your meals. These nutrients take longer to digest and keep you feeling fuller for longer periods of time.
Goji berries are a low-calorie snack and are an excellent source of fiber.
Additionally, incorporating more whole foods, lean proteins and fiber-rich veggies will help keep your hunger at bay.
Now do You See Why Goji Berries are so Beneficial?
Indeed! Goji berries are a versatile and nutritious superfood that can be eaten in various ways, including dried, fresh or as a juice.
So, the next time you’re looking for a natural solution to boost your energy levels, improve your immune system or support your overall health, these are the berries to eat!
With their range of immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, they provide a simple yet effective way to enhance your health and vitality. Start adding them to your diet today and experience the many health benefits for yourself! Check them out here.