When a fruit hits your local Bulk Barn, you know it’s arrived. Goji berries, also known as wolf berries, are prized in their native China as a medicinal aid for many ailments. Thanks to this reputation, they’ve become popular in North America as well, either dried or juiced. Rich in antioxidants, they’re easy to eat by the handful, but don’t overdo it. When it comes to Vitamin A and selenium, a little goes a long way with goji berries. And most health claims on their behalf have yet to be proven.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

• goji berries contain all eight essential amino acids
• they may boost your immune system and enhance the effect of the flu vaccine
• very high in antioxidants, which protect against cell breakdown

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Despite their use in Chinese medicine, the evidence to support the positive effects of goji berries on diabetes, blood pressure, and cancer is weak. In fact, they can interact negatively with medications like Warfarin. As well, even when they’re labelled organic, goji berries may contain pesticides, as China’s certification system is unreliable. So in spite of their allure, go easy on goji berries.