Introducing Another SuperFood–Goji Berries!

Like many products, goji berries have become a little hip lately!  And for good reason.

Goji berries (wolf berries) originated in Asia and have been grown for hundreds of years. They are considered one of the most nutritious berries. They are a significant export crop from China, but are now cultivated in many other areas of the world.  Mostly sold as dried berries, goji berries are also ingredients in juices and many other products.

Superfood!

Goji berries are packed with anti-oxidants, vitamin C and fiber.  They also have a good amount of beta-carotene, a nutrient that is great for healthy skin.  Goji berries can also strengthen eye health.  They can help boost your immune system, too, with some research indicating that they can help shorten a cold.  They can be a wonderful addition to your healthy diet!  There may be some interaction with blood-thining medications, so check with your doctor before eating goji berries if you are taking a blood thinner.

 

You can use goji berries in recipes like you would raisins or other dried fruits, as well as enjoy them raw. Add them to trail mixes, cereals (both hot and cold!), quick or yeast breads or muffins, and toss them on salads.

Goji berries are helping me in another area–I am not very good about getting enough water in my diet (I just don’t think about it enough) so I have started a little habit that helps keep my hydrated.  Each morning after I have worked, I fill a large, wide-mouthed bottle with ice water.  I add a handful of goji berries and swish it around.

Then I make sure that bottle goes with me no matter what I am doing.  I refill the water and ice as needed.  When I need a little something to munch on, I can always eat the soaked goji berries, which often satisfies my need for a snack.

And if I haven’t eaten the berries by lunchtime, I can make a goji berry smoothie with the rehydrated berries!  Here’s one idea–feel free to switch up the fruits and additions!  Use soy or nut milk, and how about pineapple or mango?

Coconut-Goji Berry Blast

• 1/4 cup soaked goji berries
• 1/2 cup frozen or fresh organic berries
• 1 cup coconut juice or coconut water
• 1/2 of a peeled organic orange or banana
• 1-2 TBSP raw organic cashews
• 2 TBSP (to taste) Organic Agave syrup

Enjoy adding this superfood to your healthy life!

Love,

Lassen’s