So many people are turning to a more holistic way of life, and there is a lot of focus on several superfoods like goji berries. Scientists are constantly investigating the proclaimed health benefits of goji berries, also known as wolfberries.
In This Article
- Goji berries are rich in zeaxanthin (eye health), vitamin A, and vitamin C
- They can interact with blood thinners and diabetes medications — consult your doctor
- Aronia berries offer 2–3x higher antioxidant levels than goji berries
- Both berries complement each other well in a balanced superfood diet
This berry has been called the ‘fountain of youth’, amongst other glowing reviews. Its nutritional components are excellent, and researchers have supported many claims of its benefits.
Origin of Wolfberries
Wolfberry is known to have originated from Asia, but it can be grown in other areas of the world. It is a very popular food supplement and herb in Asia and has been used for over 2000 years.
Goji berries contain:
- Polysaccharides, which are ideal for immunity.
- Zeaxanthin, which betters eye health.
- Beta-carotene, which keeps your skin healthy.
The nutritional components of wolfberry are quite vast. It contains double the amount of vitamin A that an adult needs in a day, and it also contains vitamin C.
It is known to be rich in essential oils and amino acids. This berry is rich in protein and fibre. Both can create a feeling of fullness, so you do not have to eat too much, making it great for weight loss.
Why you should add Wolfberries to your healthy diet
- It May Support Metabolic Health
Studies have shown that wolfberries have a hypoglycaemic effect on the body. What this means is that it may support healthy blood sugar levels already within the normal range. Research suggests it may influence lipid metabolism and support metabolic wellness. These effects are observed as part of a long-term, balanced dietary approach.
- It reduces the risk of heart disease.
Since wolfberries can reduce the levels of low-density lipid cholesterol in the blood, they, in turn, reduce the risk of heart diseases. Bad cholesterol in the blood causes plaques in the blood vessels and arteries, which in turn disrupts the natural flow of blood. When this happens, the heart is forced to pump blood at a high rate, and this causes muscle weakening which often materializes to heart failure or a heart attack. A 2020 study showed that when wolfberries have protective effects on the heart when consumed on a consistent basis.
- It may support cellular health.
Wolfberries are also called Lycium barbarum. Polysaccharides are a major component of wolfberries. They have been studied for potential effects on cellular health and may help support the body's natural defenses. The antioxidants in the wolfberries are also known to be anti-inflammatory. The Chinese have used this berry in their traditional medicine as part of wellness protocols alongside conventional medicine for several decades.
- It gives an overall feeling of well being
There have been talks about just how well the wolfberries enhance well-being and dispel anxiety and depression. A 2016 study conducted on rats proved the same. The polysaccharide component of the wolfberry increases serotonin levels in the body, and this decreases anxiety levels. The β-carotene component in the berry has also been associated with reduced anxiety in some studies. Wolfberries are also known for giving the feeling of overall well-being. Another study conducted on humans ingesting the modifications of wolfberries for 14 days proved that it increased their level of mental awareness, increased their quality of sleep, reduced stress and fatigue, gave them an all-around feeling of contentment and happiness.
- It enhances immunity
The wolfberry has been said to increase immunity levels. This means it can be taken as a preventive measure to ward off illnesses or infections. A 30-day study on older adults showed an increase in lymphocytes. Another 3-month study showed that the participants who were fed variations of wolfberries experienced an increase in immunoglobulin G levels in response to an influenza vaccine. There were no reports of influenza infection either. This concludes that long-term supplementation of wolfberries in older adults increases their body’s response time to vaccines, not affecting their immune system.
- It is an aphrodisiac.
Wolfberries have been used as aphrodisiacs. Some research suggests they may improve the quality and quantity and also increase the motility of sperm. They increase sexual performance in men and also protect the testes from harmful substances.
- It enhances eye health.
The antioxidants like zeaxanthin in wolfberries improve eye health. Zeaxanthin operates as sunblock so, it shields your eye from blue light. The macula is the central area of the retina, and continued intake of zeaxanthin reduces its degeneration in older adults. Some studies suggest it may also reduce hypopigmentation and accumulation of soft tissue in the macula.
Wolfberries are also known to improve brain health by possessing neuroprotective qualities that may support cognitive wellness. They also protect the liver against radial scavenging that might expose it to harmful chemicals. It is also known to improve the skin by suppressing inflammation.
Important Side Effects and Drug Interactions of Wolfberries
Irrespective of all the benefits they possess, it is pertinent to educate yourself about the side effects.
- Allergies
There will be itching in the nose or mouth, shortness of breath, rashes, or hives for some people.
- Drug interactions
Wolfberries may interact with drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin, or warfarin. When it interacts with warfarin, it induces bleeding. You should consult with your doctor when introducing wolfberries to your diet, especially if you are on medication.
How to Add Goji Berries to Your Diet
Wolfberries can be incorporated into the diet in different ways. You could add them to cereal or oatmeal and have it as breakfast, you could blend and add to your smoothies or yogourt, or you could add them to a salad or even chew as a snack.
Since Goji berries are now so popular, you can easily find them in fresh and dried forms for easy consumption. They are also often included in superfood mixes and are also sold as supplements.
Wolfberries can be conveniently classified as preventive rather than the usual reactive medicine everyone is accustomed to. Its antioxidants make eye health, skin health, brain health, and even sexual health top priorities. It also enhances your mental health by dealing with anxiety and depression. It is dynamic and versatile both in function and efficiency. So, there you have it, the famous wolfberry, true to its word and worth every hype.
Have you ever heard of the Aronia berry?
Aronia Berry, also known as chokeberry, is a fruit that hasn’t been mentioned enough in discussions of superfoods. Aronia berries are one of the new and interesting additions to the superfruit category. They can add flavour to anything from pies to smoothies and can be enjoyed as aronia berry products. These fruits can be slightly tart when ripe, are native to North America and have many health benefits.
With one of the highest antioxidant levels of any fruit, aronia berries are a powerful addition to your diet. Try our , , or
Organic Aronia Juice
