Goji berries were a hot superfood a couple of years ago, but news of them has dwindled off. In this edition of Foods with Benefits, we'll revisit just how spectacular these sweet berries are and 7 reasons why we should be eating more of them. I like to incorporate goji berries in desserts because they're great for sweetening and they provide some amazing benefits for the body.

Goji berries, also known as wolf berries, are considered both a fruit and a herb. They belong to the nightshade family, along with eggplants, peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and more. This bright orange-red berry has long been eaten in China to boost health and increase lifespan, which is why it is considered a “fountain of youth.” In particular, Chinese people used them to treat eye, liver and kidney diseases. They contain anti-aging properties that do wonders for the skin as well. 

They're my second favorite “real food” sweetener… dates coming in first, of course.  This is one of my favorite sweeteners  because it combines the two of them. I love using them in trail mix, smoothies and this cookie dough dip . Last put not least, these cookies. If you haven't tried them I suggest you do!   

Goji berries have been referred to as the “happy berry” as they also boost emotional health. They ease stress, anxiety and depression, as well as promote positivity and calmness. If you are suffering from insomnia, goji berries may be your go-to snack. They improve the quality of sleep and keep you energized for the day. Even athletes snack on them to strengthen the legs and boost overall performance.

Goji berries also contain healthy fatty acids like omega 6s. They are high in fiber, and low in calories, so this fruit is undoubtedly a good snack when you’re trying to lose weight. They keep you from overeating and having unnecessary cravings.

Goji Berries have more protein than whole wheat, more iron than spinach, more beta-carotene than carrots, and more vitamin C per ounce than an orange! They're also rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and E.  They are complete with all essential amino acids and 21 trace minerals like zinc, calcium, germanium, selenium and phosphorus.  

Some studies show that eating goji berries helps stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure, as well as prevent the formation of blood clots and reduce risk of heart attack and stroke.

Their carotenoid content, beta-carotene and zeaxanthine, is known to boost eye health and lower your risk of age-related eye problems. They also help detoxify the liver. As an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal fruit, goji berries fastens healing of cuts and other injuries. They are also effective in combating urinary infections.

Being similar to raisins, Goji berries are commonly available in dried form. They can be eaten raw, soaked, baked or just add them to your morning oatmeal or smoothies! 

You can buy goji berries at most grocery stores nowadays. Just make sure to buy organic! You can also buy them here.  

Here are my top 7 reasons to eat more goji berries:  

1. Protects the skin from wrinkles and keeps it looking young.
2. Helps to improve sleep quality.
3. Assists in boosting your mood and lowering stress levels.
4. Improves sexual function and fertility. 
5. Keeps hair healthy and strong. 
6. Reduces risk of stroke, cancer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimers, lupus, heart disease and more.
7. Loaded with antioxidants that keeps the body functioning optimally.