Ask a Dietitian
"Diana, just a quick heads up to let you know we are still using your cookbook and the guys will often be heard saying what would Diana say about this or that....really good feed back... I made your potato salad and the oriental coleslaw on Sat. for a family luncheon and had rave reviews so thanks again."
BC Hydro
GoJi Berries
There’s a new berry on the market packing a huge nutritional punch. Goji berries! Also known as Wolfberries, Goji berries are a small red berry grown on a tree, originally from Asia. Goji berries are now grown right here in the Fraser Valley at the only Canadian farm and supplier, www.GoJoy.ca . Goji berries are considered a superfruit due to their potent antioxidant content. They have been used in traditional Chinese Medicine for years and are now becoming popular in Canada as a source of lutein and zeaxanthin, known to help reduce the risk of age related macular degeneration. They also contain lycopene, beta carotene and polyphenols all adding to its’ antioxidant capabilities. ½ cup Goji berries contains:
40 calories
1 gram protein
9 grams of carbohydrates
2 grams fibre
30% Vitamin C
They are also a source of potassium, calcium, iron, B vitamins and zinc.
Goji berries are available fresh for a short time in the summer and can now be picked by you! They are available fresh in stores now and are available dehydrated, frozen and as a smoothie booster all year round.
Goji berries are not sweet, they only contain 6 grams of sugar per ½ cup serving. When cooked in a savory dish they take on the properties of a cherry tomato. They can also be added to desserts and smoothies. They are a delicate berry much like a raspberry and should not be thrown around. Goji berries should be refrigerated or frozen.
There are many ways to used Goji berries, the one that comes to mind for me is in smoothies. They can also be added to muffins, salads, chutney, salsa and sauces. Dried they can be added to granola, hot cereal or trail mix.