Goji Berries:

Goji berries have been recently become more popular in the Europe and North America, while they have been used in Asia for years for their health benefits. They are sometimes called wolfberries as well. Goji berries are a powerhouse of nutrients. Macronutrients in different Goji berries vary. However, every 100 grams of fresh goji berries contains approximately 66 grams of carbohydrates, 12 grams of protein, and 7 grams of fiber.

Average calories: 320 per 100 grams of fresh goji berries.

Vitamins found in higher amounts: vitamins A, C and B2.

Minerals found in higher amounts: potassium, calcium, Iron, and selenium.

Phytonutrients found in higher amounts and their health benefits: they include carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, lycopene and cryptoxanthin), phenolic acids, beta-sitosterol and polysaccharides. Carotenoids are powerful eye-protecting antioxidants, and zeaxanthin is the most abundant carotenoid in Goji berries.

Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol that blocks the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine, helping to reduce cholesterol in the blood. People with enlarged prostate gland might benefit from beta-sitosterol as well.

Phenolic acids are chemical compounds with antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Goji berries have an enzyme inhibiting effect, which means they inhibit the liver enzyme cytochrome P450. It is an enzyme complex with a key role in metabolism of many medications, including warfarin, and medications for lowering cholesterol, and high blood pressure. If you are taking any of those medications, you may discuss drug interactions of goji berries with your pharmacist.