Goji Berries and its Wealth of Benefits

Goji Berries have been used by the Chinese people for more than 2,000 years as a medicinal and culinary ingredient.

Some legends report that goji berries were eaten by monks in the Himalayan Mountains and steeped in hot water to help aid meditation and obtain greater health, vitality, longevity, energy and stamina.

Low in calories, fat-free, a good source of fiber, and a high-antioxidant food, goji berry benefits include the ability to help fight free radicals that lead to disease, effectively manage your weight, and experience better digestion. Usually eaten raw, dried, or in liquid or powder form, versatile goji berries contain a wide range of phytonutrients, vitamins and trace minerals, giving them the name "superfood berries" by many health experts.

As a surprisingly high-protein snack, dried goji berry benefits also offer a good dose of fiber, over 20 different vitamins and minerals, and, of course, a wealth of antioxidants.

Nutrition facts for goji berries can vary widely depending on the exact type of berry, how fresh they are, and how they're preserved. Different sources claim that goji berry benefits include varying degrees of nutrients, but below is a range of the vitamins, minerals and other phytochemicals present in goji berries.

Here are goji berry nutrition facts for 28 grams of dried goji berries (5 tablespoons):

• About 100 calories, 0 grams fat, 3 grams fiber, 13 grams sugar, 4 grams protein
• 7510 IU vitamin A (about 134 percent DV)
• 14 milligrams of vitamin C (about 25 percent DV)
• 12 milligrams iron (about 10 percent DV)
• 18 amino acids (11 of which are essential)
• 5 sources of healthy, unsaturated fatty acids, including alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid
• Phytochemicals, including beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lycopene, cryptoxanthin, lutein and polysaccharides