Goji Berries Benefits to the Macula

I just tried my first dried organic goji berries. They look like a little red, raisin. Eating them by themselves as a snack may not be the best way to enjoy them. A better idea may be to put them in a smoothie or in my oatmeal.

I tried the Navitas Naturals goji berries which are grown in Ningxia Province, China. The berries are vine-ripened, harvested in the summer months, and dehydrated at low temperatures for maximum nutrient preservation.

After further reading I learned that the Chinese berries are smaller and a little bitter tasting (which explains why you should put them in a smoothie). The Himalayan berries are larger, plumper and sweeter tasting.

Why did I buy them in the first place? Goji berries benefit the macula as a result of their high antioxidant compounds, including zeaxanthin and lutein. These two carotenoids make up the macular pigment, which protects our eyes from the harmful effects of ultra-violet light and blue light. Increasing our macular pigment helps to reduce our risk for macular degeneration.

There are lots of claims about the amazing health benefits of goji berries and goji juice. One of the reasons is that they are very nutrient rich. However, keep in mind it's good to include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet so that you are getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs. To learn more about the goji berry and its health benefits click here:

Goji

Thanks so much for subscribing to Macular Degeneration News.

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

Better Health for Better Vision