Have you ever gotten to try these? Do you even have any idea what they are? My boys have fallen head over heels for them, me on the other hand, I think they taste good, but not amazing. Tonchi and Koa both can’t get enough of them. These are treats for them and they treasure them like candy. Fine by me if they want this for candy! 😉

These berries are from Asia, most commonly in China, and are quite the superfood! They are also known as the wolfberry. For many generations this berry has been prized by Asians in the hopes that it would provide lasting youth. I’m not so sure it works in that arena, but it does have a lot of other health benefits. Antioxidants, Beta carotene and Vitamin C are packed into these little treats and it has been used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, fever and age related eye problems. These berries can be eaten dried, fresh or juiced and are often found in teas, wines and medicines.

As I researched some of the benefits of goji berries I was quickly convinced of their health benefits. Also in the information that I read, I felt that the best description was found on Web MD. The following is taken from their definition of goji berries.

What Are the Benefits of Goji Berries?

Research shows that eating berries — like blueberries, acai berries, cranberries, strawberries, and cherries — offers some definite health benefits. Berries like the goji berry are filled with powerful antioxidants and other compounds that may help prevent cancer and other illnesses, including heart disease. Antioxidants may also boost the immune system and lower cholesterol.

Eating foods high in antioxidants may slow the aging process as well. It does this by minimizing damage from free radicals that injure cells and damage DNA. When a cell’s DNA changes, the cell grows abnormally. Antioxidants can take away the destructive power of free radicals. By doing so, antioxidants help reduce the risk of some serious diseases.

Goji berries also have compounds rich in vitamin A that may have anti-aging benefits. These special compounds help boost immune function, protect vision, and may help prevent heart disease.
Some research suggests that goji berry extracts may boost brain health and may protect against age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Other studies using goji berry juice founds benefits in mental well-being, and calmness, athletic performance, happiness, quality of sleep, and feelings of good health. These are preliminary studies that need to be repeated before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

While goji berries are a rich source of antioxidants — and early research shows a potentially powerful health benefit — it’s still unclear how they stack up against other berries. Researchers also don’t know whether goji berry supplements have the same health benefits as the actual berries.

Now after reading about these don’t you want to go and get some? Well… they can be a bit pricey. However, I’ve spent a lot of time researching and trying to find the best deal. The best I’ve found thus far is on Amazon. I purchased ours back in March for [amazon_link id=”B001EO5OKC” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]$11.69 for two 8oz packages of Organic Navitas Naturals[/amazon_link]. Wegmans and Whole Foods prices don’t even compare and I didn’t see them last time I was at Trader Joes. If you find a better deal or have ideas of other places to look please let me know! I’m always looking for a better deal!

Medical Disclaimer: This information is meant to inform and not diagnose or treat illness or disease. Before trying any of the ideas posted please research for yourself in order to make an educated decision. Also, consult your doctor if tying to treat medical conditions.