The goji berry, which is also known as the wolfberry, is a red berry that originates from China. Although it is only recently that goji berries have come to the attention of many in the Western world, they were actually introduced in the 1600s. Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, so they can offer many health benefits.

Cancer prevention

As goji berries are an excellent source of antioxidants, they may help to prevent cancer. Antioxidants fight the harmful free radicals that can cause cell damage. This damage can cause various illnesses, including cancer.

The antioxidants that can be obtained by consumption of goji berries include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and flavonoids.

Immune support

Goji berries contain a good amount of vitamin C, which is beneficial for supporting the immune system. Vitamin C can help to boost the immune system, therefore building up defences against infection.

A serving of goji berries can contain roughly 20 percent of the vitamin C recommended daily allowance (RDA).

Goji berries also contain polysaccharides, which are thought to strengthen the immune system.

Eye health

The beta-carotene in goji berries is converted to vitamin A, which can help vision. Vitamin A can improve night vision, as well as reducing the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

A portion of goji berries can provide an incredible 170 percent of the vitamin A RDA.

Treating sleep disorders

Goji berries contain thiamin and magnesium, which can both provide relief from sleep disorders.

Thiamin can help to get the body in the mood for relaxation, while magnesium reduces the amount of time that it takes to fall asleep.

A study was carried out on a group of elderly people who were given a dose of goji berries daily for three weeks. It was found that 95 percent of the participants experienced better sleep.

Cholesterol control

Research has shown that eating goji berries can increase the production of superoxide dismutase, which is an enzyme that produces antioxidants that stop cholesterol from oxidising.

Cholesterol becomes dangerous when it oxidises, as it can cause plaques to form on the artery walls.

As well as aiding in the production of antioxidants, goji berries also contain antioxidants that can help to decrease the oxidation of cholesterol.

Anti-ageing

It is thought that goji berries may be a good anti-ageing food. Antioxidants may help to prevent premature ageing by fighting the free radicals that can cause damage to skin cells. This damage can accelerate the formation of wrinkles.

Goji berries are considered to be one of the highest antioxidant foods available.

How to eat goji berries

Goji berries are usually only available in dried form. They are tasty enough to eat on their own for a snack, or if you prefer they can be added to yoghurt, cereal and trail mix. They can also be added to cookies or muffins.

If you prefer, you can plump the berries before using them. This can be done by placing them in a bowl of water and microwaving for one minute, then leaving them in the water for ten minutes.

Whichever way you choose to enjoy goji berries, you could be obtaining numerous health benefits.