Goji berries are considered one of the best-known superfoods and can be purchased in dried form in supermarkets, health food stores and drugstores. They are said to be particularly healthy. What’s that about it?
Lots of vitamin C, but also lots of sugar
First of all, a look at the nutrients: “They contain lots of carotenoids, vitamin C, iron, calcium, but also fiber,” says Daniela Krehl from the Bavarian Consumer Center.
Because these are dried fruits, the sugar content is also high – according to Krehl, it is 46 percent. Goji berries are therefore significantly higher in calories than other sources of vitamin C such as peppers or black currants.
The berries are said to strengthen the immune system and have an anti-aging effect. However, scientific evidence for this is lacking.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has determined that there is no causal relationship between various claimed health effects and the consumption of goji berries. Therefore, such health-related statements are not permitted.
Goji berries: Be careful with blood thinners
According to the Bavarian Consumer Center, goji berries are not suitable for everyone, for example because there can be interactions with medications. Goji berries can inhibit the breakdown of certain blood thinners – so-called vitamin K antagonists. The result can be a dangerous accumulation of active ingredients in the body and an increased tendency to bleed. If you want to be on the safe side, talk to a doctor.
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