RAW SUPERFOOD: THE GLORIOUS GOJI BERRY

Tibetan Goji Berries are one of the most nutritionally-rich superfoods on the planet.

An ancient treasure, this little berry has been used for centuries to strengthen the immune system, stimulate release of human growth hormone by the pituitary, build muscle and strength, increase sexual potency and promote longevity.

Why Goji is Glorious:

According to the ORAC Scale, a test used by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to measure a food’s anti-oxidant ability to destroy and neutralize free radicals, the Tibetan Goji scores 25,300. To put this score in perspective, on the ORAC scale oranges score 750, spinach: 1260, broccoli: 890. And even if you are into prunes, they still fall far short with a score of only 5770.

More facts about Goji Berries:

–Contain 18 amino acids, including all 8 essentials making it a complete protein source!
–Over 20 trace minerals (like calcium, iron, germanium, phosphorous and zinc)
–More beta carotene than carrots
–More Vitamin C per ounce than oranges
–Low in sugar (about 4g per serving. Substantially less than other dried fruit like raisins
–High Fiber-about 4g per serving
–Tasty! No yuck-factor here. Dried Goji berries are slightly sweet (like a cross between a raisin and a cranberry) and add delectable chewiness to trail mix, yogurt, oatmeal or salad. Goji’s can also be blended into your smoothie or protein shake.

Before You Go Goji:

Be sure to buy cold-pressed, air-dried Goji that are raw - meaning they have never been exposed to heat processing and do not contain preservatives.

The Goji Controversy:

Healthy people get really pissed when they find out they are purchasing something that is not what they think it is. The best way to explain what all the hullabaloo is about is to take you on a crash course of the history of the Goji Berry:

Thousands of years ago Tibetan Lycium or Goji, was taken from Tibet and cultivated in China where it evolved into Chinese Lycium Barbarum, a genetic cousin of the Tibetan Goji. Today, Chinese Lycium Barbarum/Wolfberries are being widely marketed under the name “Goji Berry.”

Now, the ChineseWolfberry happens to be a superior herb, used in Chinese medicine to treat diabetes, hypertension, fever, malaria, macular degeneration, and to promote longevity, among many other conditions.

Despite this, there are two main reasons consumers are justifiably upset with Wolfberries being sold under the name “Goji.” The first is that there is debate as to whether Chinese Wolfberries are as potent as their cousin the Tibetan Gogi. The second is that many Chinese botanical farms use DDT and other toxic chemicals which can make Wolfberries unsuitable for consumption.

My Advice:

Check labels carefully to be sure source of the “Goji” is Tibet not China, if what you are seeking is the purest, most potent form of Goji. But there is absolutely nothing wrong with buying the widely available, ORGANICALLY grown Chinese Wolfberries that happen to be labeled “Goji Berries.” I am fond of: Artisana’s Goji that are grown in China and pristine regions of Mongolia. Nature’s First Law is another good brand (available at places like Whole Foods) of organic, plump berries, sun-dried berries full of antioxidants, amino acids and Vitamin C.

The Real Deal

For those of you who will only deign to put the Tibetan Goji to your lips (I find hardcore sexy), go to tibetauthentic.com where you’ll find superior Tibetan Goji Berries grown without pesticides or fertilizers from a company associated with the Tibetan Medical College. A 16oz package runs between $25.99 (on special) to $35.99.

Also, check out www.caoh.org where you can buy 100% Organic Tibetan Goji Juice. This juice is cold-pressed, not from concentrate or powder and has no water added. Notice this juice is bright red in color because it is raw. The murky, “Goji-mollasses”stuff you often find in health food stores isn’t red because it isn’t raw and it also doesn’t confer the same benefits. A 32 oz bottle Tibetan Goji juice runs about $30.00, and a daily serving is 1-2 oz a day.

Hey Man, Raisins are Cheaper!

Tibetan Goji Berries ain’t cheap. But here’s why: It takes approximately 6.6 lbs of fresh berries to create 18 ounces of dried fruit. The good news is that a daily serving of Goji is just a handful (not the double-palmer you use to measure your “handful of almonds a day” either, you big cheater), so even a 16oz bag will last a while.

Since when are you stingy when it comes to your health anyway? Try this: if you find yourself suffering from tightwad symptoms at the checkout counter just picture a dried up old willy flopping in the wind. Sad thought right?. Now imagine a hot 85 year- old still prancing downthe beach See? You’ll probably throw 2 more bags in the cart. Seriously though, investing in a food that can enhance quality of life is just that - an investment!

And honey, you are so worth it!

Go Goji!
Xo,
Health Sundae

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