Goji berries: benefits and harms to the body

The problems of losing weight, preserving youth and getting rid of all diseases over the years have not lost their relevance. Every year, new “magic tools” appear on the market, the manufacturers of which promise a quick and long-lasting effect that will be noticeable from the first application. However, most of these drugs can act only on the basis of the "placebo" principle, and in some cases - not only do not help, but also worsen a person’s well-being. Therefore, the problem of finding natural and effective means that contribute to improving health and correcting body imperfections in men and women of all ages is very acute.

What do goji berries look like and where do they grow

They are the fruits of a woody plant, which in their external characteristics are very similar to a wolf berry. Their color is reddish-orange, the shape is oval, oblong. Goji can also be recognized immediately by its characteristic sweet-spicy aroma. They grow mostly in the north (in the central part) and in the west of China and are exported dried all over the world.

Composition and calorie content

Berries are used exclusively in dried form. They differ in relatively low calorie content: 309 kcal per 100 g of product.

The composition of the fruit is rich in various vitamins and minerals, in particular beta-carotene, vitamins of groups A, C, B1, PP and N. Also, the benefits of goji are due to the presence of potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium and other useful microelements in them.

Useful properties of goji berries

General benefit

The results of studies of Chinese medicine to date prove the presence of just a huge number of useful properties. First of all, the use of these fruits contributes to the normalization of the nervous system, which determines their benefit in the treatment of various neurotic and emotional disorders. Goji berries are also widely used in traditional medicine recipes as a strengthening agent during the recovery period after complex and prolonged colds or for their prevention. These berries contribute to the normalization of metabolism and treatment of problems of the gastrointestinal tract, which, in turn, determines the use of goji as a means of losing weight.

Also, from the point of view of beauty, the systematic use of berries allows you to improve the condition of the skin (primarily in the framework of the complex treatment of acne), reduce blood glucose. However, despite the wide variety of useful properties of goji, it is important to consider that today there is no scientific research in traditional medicine that would prove or refute the positive effect of eating berries.

For women

The benefits of goji berries for women are the possibility of using them to correct the figure, reduce pain during the premenstrual period and during menstruation, and also to regulate the menstrual cycle.Also, according to Chinese medicine, moderate consumption of these berries can prevent or even, as part of complex therapy, cure infertility by normalizing hormonal levels and stimulating ovarian function.

Particular attention should be paid to the benefits of goji berries for the skin, which is most important for women with certain hormonal disorders. Their useful properties in this case are determined by the presence of beta-carotene in the fruit, which helps to preserve youth as much as possible, prevents the appearance of facial wrinkles and gives the skin additional shine and radiance. Amino acids, which are part of the fruit, contribute to a decrease in the level of pigmentation in women. Vitamins and microelements, which are rich in berries, have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, which helps to reduce the number of acne and prevent the appearance of new ones.

For men

Goji berries are a fairly effective means of treating men for infertility, but exclusively as part of complex therapy. The trace elements that make up the berries, due to the influence on the work of the reproductive organs of men, can significantly accelerate the treatment process. Goji also favorably affects potency, due to which it is often used as an aphrodisiac. First of all, this effect is achieved due to the normalization of the functions of the adrenal glands, which, in turn, are responsible for the sexual energy of males.

Also, the systematic use of berries allows you to normalize the metabolism, stabilize the level of hormones (this also affects the condition of the skin), improve the emotional state (reduce the severity of signs of anxiety, reduce the degree of mental stress, eliminate manifestations of irritability, etc.).

During pregnancy

There is an opinion that goji berries are also very effective during pregnancy in order to alleviate the symptoms of toxicosis and prevent edema characteristic of the last trimester.

When breastfeeding

To date, there are no studies on the benefits and harms of goji berries for women who are breastfeeding. However, since the fruits are recommended for use by expectant mothers, you can probably talk about the benefits of berries during this period.

For kids

Most parents dream of finding a miracle cure, thanks to which their children would stop being sick once and for all. Therefore, in search of an effective means to strengthen immunity, fight colds and infectious diseases, they buy a huge amount of pharmaceuticals, the result of which is either negligible or completely absent. In this case, goji berries are an effective remedy, which due to its composition can not only remove the symptoms of the common cold, but also have a pronounced preventive effect.

Is goji berry tea good for you?

When brewing tea with goji berries, all the beneficial properties of the fruits are preserved, but it is important to follow a number of mandatory recommendations. Goji fruits are characterized by an almost complete absence of contraindications, but it is important to note some cases in which it is advisable to refuse to take tea with such berries. In particular, tea with goji berries is contraindicated for use:

• with individual intolerance;
• poor blood clotting;
• insomnia;
• high temperature;
• while taking anticoagulants.

During the intake of any medications, the presence of diseases of the stomach or intestines, as well as pathologies of the heart or blood vessels, it is necessary to first obtain a consultation with the attending doctor.

How to brew

There are several popular ways to brew tea with goji berries.

1. From 2 to 10 berries, in dried form, is poured into a teapot or thermos with a volume of 0.5 to 1 liter, after which hot water is poured into the container (under no circumstances should the berries be boiled with boiling water).Insist half an hour. Only after that a healthy drink will be ready to drink 2-3 times throughout the day.
2. Fruits (in the amount of one tablespoon) are poured into 400 ml of hot water (under no circumstances should you brew berries with boiling water). In order to achieve the effect of losing weight, it is recommended to use about 200 ml of liquid on an empty stomach and the same volume 10–20 minutes before bedtime. This method has gained wide popularity as an addition to the main stage of losing weight.
3. Ordinary tea is brewed (green or black), after which 6–7 berries in dried form are added to the container (teapot or thermos). After that, a person can fully enjoy the extraordinary taste with traditional notes.

How to take goji berries for weight loss

The use of goji berries has become widespread among people of all ages, especially women. In order to get rid of excess weight, these fruits must be taken as part of dishes or drinks. When choosing berries in this case, special attention should be paid to several points:

1. When buying a Tibetan plant, it is important to have reliable information from where it was brought from. Goji berries are currently grown in Spain, but at the same time, in terms of their effectiveness for losing weight, these fruits significantly lose to those that grow directly in Tibet itself.
2. In order to verify the absence of various side effects from eating goji berries, it is necessary to start taking fruits with minimal doses. As you get used to the product, the number of berries increases.
3. Well-washed dried berries are taken in food in a dosage of 15 to 45 grams every day as dried fruits. Also, berries can be brewed with hot water and used as an additive to a variety of desserts, cocktails, salads, etc.
4. In order for the effect of losing weight with the help of goji berries to be noticeable, it is advisable to change the usual diet of a person, first of all, by eliminating foods that are harmful to a good figure: sweets, fatty, fried and spicy foods.
5. The use of goji berries is allowed only in dried form, otherwise it may cause various side effects up to death.

According to numerous studies by nutritionists, it is advisable to combine the use of goji berries with diet food. You need to eat dried fruits daily up to 50 g for thirty days. If the person’s goal is to lose more than 5 kilograms in one month, then the duration of the course should be increased by 2–4 times. The full course of weight loss with the help of this dietary product consists in the use of goji berries in similar doses every day, but for six months now.

In order to lose more than 5 kilograms in one month, you must adhere to a strictly regulated pattern of eating goji berries at the rate of 50 grams every day. The consumption algorithm is as follows:

1. The first goji berries (8–11 grams) are recommended to be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach, observing the required time interval - no more than 40 minutes before eating.
2. The next part of the dose is advisable to break for the whole day.
3. It is important to consider that the last meal should be made no later than 17.00 (regardless of the meal time).

Medical use

Brewing Goji Tea

For many years, Chinese people have brewed tea with goji fruits and chrysanthemum, which can achieve a significant effect not only in the process of getting rid of extra pounds, but also with the goal of normalizing pressure (due to useful trace elements), as well as a means of reducing glucose levels in blood. Such tea also allows you to achieve a tonic effect, give a boost of vigor to the human body for the whole day. This tea is brewed from such products:

• six goji berries;
• a teaspoon of black Ceylon tea (not packaged);
• chrysanthemum flowers (4–5 pieces).

All elements of miraculous tea are poured with hot water, after which the finished drink is left for half an hour. After this time, tea is ready for direct consumption. With the amount of these ingredients, tea is designed for 2-3 meals, respectively, one brewing is enough for the whole day. Such a drink is an excellent addition to a full breakfast, lunch or dinner. Also, the use of tea with goji berries and chrysanthemum flowers helps to reduce the level of fatigue from physical exertion (for example, in the fitness room).

Porridge with goji berries

This recipe allows you to make a full breakfast from the familiar porridge and many goji berries. Also, the resulting food can be used as an excellent option for quick weight loss. The recipe for delicious porridge is as follows.

Wash one glass of rice (it is advisable to use brown rice in this recipe), after which it is poured into a saucepan, combining with 5 grams of berries (required in dried form). The resulting mixture is poured with water (2-3 mugs of 200 grams each) and boiled over low heat. If a person cooks such a breakfast in order to get rid of extra pounds, then it is not recommended to add sugar, salt or oil.

A healthy and delicious breakfast can also be made with goji berries and everyone’s favorite oatmeal. For this purpose, 3 tablespoons of oatmeal are soaked, after which the porridge is boiled for a short time on low heat (no more than five minutes). Next, about 200 grams of milk (preferably non-fat) is poured into the pan, 5-7 pieces of goji fruit are added (necessarily in dried form), half a tablespoon of honey (if necessary, you can not add it). The resulting mixture is insisted for several minutes. After that, a wholesome and tasty breakfast can be eaten.

Goji Berry Smoothie

One of the modern popular recipes for goji eating by people who suffer from any type of diabetes is a smoothie made from miraculous berries. In order to prepare this tasty and healthy drink, you need to take a small amount of goji fruit (from 5 to 10 berries), yogurt (preferably without any additives) and blackberry, raspberry and cranberry juice in any proportions (depending on the preferences of the person himself). Also, if desired, ice can be added to the smoothie. All these ingredients are sent to a blender and beat until smooth. The resulting smoothie can be drunk (if the mass turned out to be quite liquid) or eat with a spoon (with a thick consistency).

Today, there are also a large number of other recipes for eating goji berries for people who suffer from certain diseases. In particular, these fruits are recommended to be eaten:

1. To normalize the functioning of the nervous system, which determines their benefit in the treatment of various neurotic and emotional disorders.
2. As a strengthening agent during the recovery period after prolonged colds or with a view to preventing them.
3. To normalize the metabolism and treatment of problems of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. To alleviate the symptoms of toxicosis in women during pregnancy, etc.

Goji berries in cosmetology

Due to the presence of a large number of useful microelements in goji berries, they are characterized by the presence of active anti-aging properties. In particular, through the use of goji, it is possible to make fairly effective caring face masks at home that have a pronounced anti-aging effect.

Goji berries also contain a large number of useful minerals, among which zinc, selenium, iodine, iron, calcium are of particular importance in skin care. Due to its composition, the fruits contribute to an increase in skin tone, its rejuvenation, prevention of wrinkles, stimulation of collagen production, moisturizing, nutrition, activation of skin respiration, etc.

Goji is also used as a part of various hair masks, allowing to achieve natural shine and shine of the hair, moisturizing and nourishing.

Recipes for hair and skin masks with goji berries:

1. The powder, which is obtained through the systematic grinding of dried fruits, is combined with clay (in the proportions of one tablespoon) and diluted with water until a grueling mixture is achieved. The mask helps to lighten pigmented areas of the skin, tighten pores, neutralize inflammation of various origins, increase skin tone and reduce its level of fat content. The resulting mixture is applied to pre-cleansed skin for 30–40 minutes, after which it is washed off with cool water.
2. In order to cleanse the skin of the face and body, a mask prepared as follows shows high efficiency: crushed dried goji berries, ground coffee and kefir in equal proportions (kefir can be replaced with low-fat cream if necessary). This mask is used as a scrub no more than 2 times a week.
3. There is also another popular folk recipe for a rejuvenating mask of goji berries. To prepare it, mix (one tablespoon each) honey, crushed dried berries, cream. Add 1 teaspoon of rosehip oil to the finished mixture. The resulting mass is applied to pre-cleansed facial skin for 20-30 minutes, after which it is washed off with cool water. After the mask, it is recommended to apply a moisturizer.
4. For the care of combination skin, the following mask recipe was widely popular. 10 dry berries are soaked in hot water, and then chopped thoroughly. The following ingredients are added to the mixture: one teaspoon of honey, 20 to 30 drops of grape seed oil (orange or lemon is also suitable), one tablespoon of sour cream, and 5 drops of vitamin E. The resulting mixture is applied to 40 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
5. Finally, to tighten pores and reduce inflammation, make the next mask with goji berries. One egg protein with a blender is mixed with berry powder (about 2 teaspoons). In the resulting mixture add one teaspoon of lemon juice, as well as vitamins A and E in similar proportions. The resulting mixture is well beaten. Also, in the absence of allergic reactions, 3 drops of tea tree essential oil (or one teaspoon of aloe) are added to the mask to enhance the effect. The resulting mixture is applied to pre-cleansed skin for 15–20 minutes, after which it is washed off with cool water.

Harm and contraindications

In addition to the noticeable health benefits of the body, taking goji fruit can cause some unpleasant side effects. In particular, exceeding the norm of eating goji fruit can lead to a variety of allergic reactions, serious disruption of the gastrointestinal tract, increased pressure and, in especially severe cases, death. However, even moderate goji consumption has a number of negative side effects:

1. Strengthening the action of various drugs. A great danger is the combination of the use of goji berries with the use of anticoagulants, some painkillers and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Berries enhance their action, which can cause complications. Also, with the constant use of Warfarin, the use of goji berries can cause uncontrolled bleeding. In this regard, the introduction of additives (goji fruit) in food is allowed only after completion of the entire course of treatment.
2. High blood pressure. The use of goji berries is recommended only to those people who are diagnosed with the initial stage of hypertension. Trace elements and other substances in goji berries contribute to the rapid expansion of blood vessels. After a certain time, the pressure drops sharply. If a person consumes anticoagulants simultaneously with goji berries (regardless of the form of consumption of the latter), then he may experience a violation of blood viscosity.This condition can cause high blood pressure and the need for emergency medical care.
3. The possibility of allergic reactions. In the case when a person is diagnosed with tolerance of berries or red fruits, goji fruits are categorically not recommended for consumption (there are also restrictions on the use of masks). Like all other plants, goji can contribute to various allergic reactions. In particular, cases of itching, urticaria and laryngeal edema were diagnosed. Serious disorders of the gastrointestinal tract may also occur.
4. The appearance of insomnia. Reception of goji berries (regardless of the form of their use) in the evening can cause various sleep disorders, including persistent insomnia (which lasts from 2 days or more). This is due to the presence in the composition of goji berries of a large number of natural energetics, which can cause a person to be over alert and hyperactive. In order to avoid this unpleasant side effect, taking berries is not recommended after 17.00.
5. Excess selenium. During pregnancy, women are not recommended to eat goji berries in their pure form (this recommendation does not apply to tea with fruits in small quantities). Due to the presence of a large amount of selenium in the fruit, intake of pure goji berries during pregnancy can have a negative effect on the development of the fetus inside the womb. There is also an increased risk of congenital heart defects or stunted growths. During breastfeeding, it is also not recommended to use goji berries in their pure form, since selenium can enter the baby through the mother’s milk.
6. Gastrointestinal tract disorders. Excessive consumption of goji berries (exceeding the prescribed norm by more than 1.5 times) can lead to bloating. In people with digestive system disorders, other disorders may occur. In particular, this can lead to diarrhea or constipation, the appearance of abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, indigestion, and heartburn.

How to choose and store

It is widely known that in Russia it is rather difficult to get goji fruits. They are almost not grown in our area, or they do not possess the complex of necessary useful properties.

The price of goji berries is currently quite high, it can vary from 30 to 80 dollars per kilogram, in connection with which, in recent years, the case of selling a fake product has become much more frequent. Therefore, everyone who wants to get real goji berries, with the whole range of useful microelements, needs to know the basic criteria for choosing and storing these fruits.

Goji fruit selection rules

Given the fact that it is practically impossible to deliver fresh fruits from China to Russia, they are already imported in dried form. In this regard, if a person is offered to purchase fresh berries, this indicates an attempt to falsify. It is important to remember that dried goji fully retain all its beneficial properties.

With the rapid development of technological progress, the method of acquiring goji berries in online stores has become widespread. When buying goods in this way, it is important to pay attention to several nuances. First of all, the cost of a kilogram of goji should not be too low - quality fruits will not be sold at a price below $ 25-30. Otherwise, we are talking about falsified berries. It is also important to get acquainted with customer reviews both on the website of the online store itself and in any search engine, as some providers remove negative comments to maintain the rating.

A place to store miraculous fruits should always remain dry. Also, the fruits are better stored in coolness and darkness. These rules work for both fresh and dried goji berries. Ready drinks (decoctions) with fruits must be stored in the refrigerator.

Is it possible to freeze

Goji berries can be frozen if several rules are followed. First of all, you need to carefully sort through the fruits and inspect for any suspicious external defects. After that, send the selected berries to the freezer in a plastic bag.

How to dry

Since the real goji berries are transported from China to Russia already in dried form, the purchase of fresh ones is fraught with the risk of buying low-quality products.

How to eat goji berries

There are several ways and forms of eating goji berries. First of all, dried fruits are eaten independently as dried fruits, it is also allowed to use them in the form of teas and various decoctions and as useful additives for a variety of dishes. However, it is important to take into account one caveat - if a person has never tried goji berries before, then initially you need to try to eat a few pieces and look at the reaction of the body. If after several days no various side effects appear, then you can use them in the most convenient form and at the dosages indicated in the recipes.

How much can you eat per day

The daily intake of goji berries should not exceed 100 grams.

Is it possible to eat fresh goji berries

Under no circumstances is it allowed to eat the fruits in their pure form. Fresh goji berries are poisonous to the body, which can be fatal.

What can be prepared from goji berries

Since goji berries can be used as additives to various dishes, they have also been widely used in cooking. In particular, several of the most interesting recipes can be distinguished.

Gazpacho with goji berries and cheese

The following ingredients are required to prepare this vegetarian dish:

• 200 g goji berries;
• 300 ml of drinking water;
• 200 g low-fat feta cheese;
• 400 g of ripe red tomatoes;
• 100 g of sweet cherry;
• half of the onion;
• a pinch of sugar;
• olive oil;
• salt to taste.

Goji berries are initially poured with warm water and insisted for 10 minutes until completely soaked. All the bones are taken out of the cherry, after which it is mixed with goji and vegetables in a blender. This mixture is poured with water, olive oil is added to it. The resulting mass is beaten to the consistency of a thick soup. Serving such a gazpacho to the table is recommended with finely chopped slices of feta cheese, which is pleasantly refreshing in the hot season.

Goji and pork liver soup

This soup is quite simple to prepare. The pork liver is very thoroughly washed, soaked in water and boiled over medium heat for 30-40 minutes. After boiling, add 50 g of goji berries to the pan, vegetables to taste and cook the soup until cooked.

Lamb Soup with Goji Berries

Lamb ribs are poured with a small amount of water, and then brought to a boil (preferably over medium heat). Before boiling, the stew removes the emerging foam, which can spoil the taste of the finished dish. Goji fruits are washed with great care, mixed with chopped onions and ginger (the latter is recommended to be sliced). The resulting mixture is added to the lamb ribs, after which a small amount of wine is poured into the chowder (no more than one tablespoon) and spices are added (in the classic version salt, pepper and Provencal herbs are added to this soup, however, the list of spices can expand depending on taste preferences )

Next, the fire on the stove is reduced to minimum values ​​and the soup is boiled until the mutton is fully cooked.After the meat is cooked, it is removed from the pan, the broth is carefully filtered, and then the lamb is returned to the pan. Ready-made soup is served hot. Also, a small amount of sour cream or mayonnaise is added to the prepared soup, and finely chopped greens (dill or parsley) are also added. It is important to note that such a soup is an excellent way to alleviate the symptoms of various colds.

Goji berries can also be used as additives in the preparation of fruit salads, main dishes (especially well combined with beef), as well as in baking a variety of desserts.

Interesting Goji Facts

1. According to Chinese scientists, the antioxidants and polysaccharides contained in goji berries can significantly increase the body's level of protection against free radicals. This makes it possible to prevent premature aging, lower cholesterol, improve the condition and function of blood vessels. There are also a number of studies that prove the interdependence of moderate consumption of goji berries with a person's life expectancy.
2. Goji berries contain a well-known anti-cancer mineral - germanium. In turn, antioxidants and beneficial polysaccharides can become a serious obstacle to the growth and development of cancer cells in the human body, which systematically consumes goji berries. People with diagnosed malignant tumors who have undergone chemotherapy more than once speak of a serious reduction in the recovery period while consuming goji fruit. However, it is important to note that berries cannot be considered a panacea for cancer. They are a good additional tool that supports the body of a cancer patient during the rehabilitation period.
3. The Ministry of Health of China officially approved goji berries in 1983 as an effective homeopathic remedy for the treatment of colds and infectious diseases.

Photo goji berries