As a revered herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), goji berries have stood the test of time, upholding their “superfood” status.
For thousands of years, goji berries have been used in culinary and medicinal applications; they even appear in the oldest book on Chinese herbs. Long before we began topping our smoothie bowls with these sweet and tangy dried berries, they were used as tinctures, teas, and powders to nourish and tonify the liver and kidneys.
BENEFITS YOU CAN SEE
Did you know goji berries can make you look and feel younger?
Often considered the “longevity berry,” goji berries can protect eye health, rejuvenate skin, and even help you live longer. They’re a good source of iron, potassium, fibre, and vitamins A and C. Most of their remarkable health benefits are attributed to their many antioxidant nutrients, like zeaxanthin and beta-carotene.
Antioxidants are compounds that protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals. This type of damage, known as oxidative stress, speeds up the aging process and contributes to health conditions such as heart disease.
Some antioxidants are more effective in certain parts of the body than others. Zeaxanthin, for example, helps to protect the eyes, reducing the likelihood of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.
Just two tablespoons of dried goji berries each day will fulfill your recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of vitamin A. This essential nutrient not only promotes eye health but also enhances skin vitality by stimulating collagen production, improving cell integrity, and speeding up cellular turnover, resulting in better moisture retention and a healthier complexion.
So, give goji berries a try, and you might just see the difference!
GOJI SUNRISE BARS
These bars are lightly sweetened and chewy, yet firm enough to take on the go. They’re loaded with red goji berries and shredded carrots for a colourful pop of nutrients. Pack this hearty snack for all your summer adventures.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 c rolled oats
- ¼ c flax meal
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1½ c unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ c honey
- ½ c walnut pieces
- 1 c carrots, grated
- ½ cup goji berries
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Line a 9 x 7-inch baking dish with unbleached parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, flax meal, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- In another mixing bowl, combine eggs, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
- Add the contents of the wet bowl into the dry bowl and mix until combined.
- Lastly, add the honey, walnuts, shredded carrots, and goji berries. Mix well.
- Place another piece of parchment paper over your dish to prevent the goji berries from burning.
- Bake for 70 minutes. Enjoy warm or cold.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
