Goji Berry has a red colored appearance and a sweet taste. Recently, it is frequently preferred due to its health benefits. It contains; It contains various vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, sodium, calcium, iron. It is also very beneficial for human health.
Goji berries are also known as wolfberries or red blueberries. It is a fruit that grows in Asian regions such as China, Tibet and Mongolia. This fruit has a sweet and slightly sour taste. It is preferred for medicinal purposes in China. Goji berry is very rich in some vitamins and minerals.
It contains vitamin C, iron, zinc and beta-carotene . It is also rich in polysaccharides and antioxidants. This fruit, which stands out with its high antioxidant and fiber content, contributes to strengthening the immune system Goji berry is generally consumed raw; but dried, cooked or powder form is also recommended.
What are the Benefits of Goji Berry?
Goji berry is one of the fruits that are frequently preferred recently and provide various benefits. Some of the benefits of goji berry are as follows;
Strengthens the immune system: Goji berry contributes to strengthening the immune system thanks to its vitamins and antioxidants. In particular, it supports the prevention of various ailments with its abundant vitamin A and C content.
It is beneficial for eye health: It is effective in protecting eye health through the carotenoids it contains. However, it can prevent the occurrence of age-related eye disorders.
It is beneficial for skin health: It is beneficial for skin health with beta carotenes in its content. Beta carotenes reduce skin irritations and support protection against harmful rays from the sun.
Supports heart health: With its natural polysaccharides, it supports heart health and prevents cardiovascular disorders.
Contributes to the fight against cancer: It contains a large amount of vitamin C, carotenoids contribute to preventing cancer by fighting cancer cells. In addition, it slows tumor growth with the antioxidants in its structure and supports the removal of harmful substances from the body.
It is beneficial for bone health: It is beneficial for bone health thanks to the minerals it contains.
It is important in the fight against stress: Goji berry benefits mental health when consumed regularly. Along with this, it can contribute to fighting stress and increasing sleep quality with its natural polysaccharides.
Regulates blood sugar levels: It regulates blood sugar levels through the polysaccharides it contains.
These benefits of goji berries become more pronounced when consumed regularly. However, like a certain food, it is absolutely necessary to consult a doctor before taking it.
How to Consume Goji Berry?
Goji berry, which is consumed in fresh or dried form, can be consumed as follows;
Dried goji berry: Dried goji berry is added to yogurt and salads. Dried goji berry can also be preferred in desserts.
Raw: Goji berry can be consumed raw according to preference.
It can be added to smoothies: Goji berry is added to smoothies with its sweet and slightly sour taste and consumed.
It is added to oat mixtures: It is added to breakfast oats, granola or other mixtures.
Added to nut mixes: Goji berries are mixed with nuts such as hazelnuts, almonds and cashews.
As a tea: Goji berry tea can be brewed in boiling water and drunk.
It can be added to meals: Especially dishes from Asian cuisine can be consumed with goji berries.
Goji berries have a sweet aroma and can also be used in dessert recipes. However, like a specific nutrient, a specialist should be consulted before consuming goji berries. However, attention should be paid to the consumption rate and should not be overused.
What are Goji Berry Harms?
Goji berry has many benefits and is a generally preferred fruit. However, consuming this fruit can cause harmful effects in some people. Goji berry harms are as follows;
Drug interaction: This fruit can interact with some medications such as blood thinners or antibiotics and can cause harmful effects.
Allergic reactions: Goji berries may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If symptoms such as itching, rash or difficulty breathing occur, consumption should be discontinued and a specialist should be consulted.
Stomach upset: Goji berries can cause stomach upset in some people. Even if symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea occur, consumption should be discontinued and a specialist should be consulted.
Differences in blood sugar levels: Goji berries affect blood sugar levels and can be a problem for diabetics. Therefore, diabetics should consult a specialist before eating goji berries.
Overdose: Eating high amounts of goji berries can cause symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness or sleep disturbances.