Integrative Health Blog

How to Get the Most from the Goji Berry

One of the reasons Goji is so super is that it has a special type of molecule known as polysaccharides. In my previous article, Superfoods Hacks: How to Get the Most Out of Your Superfoods,  I talked about how the polysaccharides in goji have been shown to strengthen the immune system in a unique way, fight free radicals, and may even have anti-tumor properties. Boiling Gojis in water, like the Chinese have been doing for centuries boosts the yield of polysaccharides because they are water-soluble nutrients.  However, Goji doesn’t only have water-soluble nutrients, it’s also full of a host of other phytonutrients such as zeaxanthin and oil-soluble vitamins, like vitamin A. What that means is that Goji tea is only giving us some of the good stuff in found in the berries, but not all. Enter Goji Milk Tea. Goji Milk Tea can be made with actual dairy or with non-dairy alternatives like coconut, hemp, or almond milk; according to your preference. What matters is that the base milk contains lipids (fats) to pull out the oil soluble nutrients, ensuring that we get the most out of this incredible super berry!

This nourishing superfood elixer can be consumed warm or cool however, I enjoy it best when it’s a bit warm. The Goji, Chia, and Maca superfoods in this tonic are prepared for highest bioavailability of nutrients and work synergistically with one another, giving the drink a sweet buttery taste, and a lovely golden hue.

Goji Milk Tea Recipe

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There is a good, better, and a best way of doing anything in life, and when it comes to the best way to consume your superfoods, there is no exception. However, before we get into that, it might be best to take a moment to acknowledge where we are and how far we have come on our path to wellness. If you have been making an effort to incorporate superfoods into your diet, then go right ahead and pat yourself on the back for being such an adventurous advocate for your health. If you haven’t explored superfoods yet, and are beginning to wonder if I am talking about Superman’s diet, then not to worry; you will learn a few crucial superfood hacks that some people take years to learn. In this article we are going to explore the best preparation methods for my three favorite superfoods, taking into consideration both their traditional preparations and current science on achieving maximum absorption of what makes them “super”.

Goji, and Chia, and Maca, Oh My!

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Chia is a nutritious seed that packs one powerhouse punch.

It is a great source of soluble fiber, minerals such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorous, antioxidants, and omega-3s. Chia seeds can easily be sprinkled into oatmeal or baked into muffins, however the most versatile way to consume chia seeds is by making chia seed gel.

Chia Seed Gel Recipe

You will need:

• 3 T Chia seeds (preferably ground)
• 2 cups filtered water
• A jar with a lid

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Are you aware of the many anti-inflammatory properties found in turmeric? 

I listed the properties in a previous article in a recipe for turmeric milk. There are over 7,800 studies done on the benefits of turmeric! Reviewing these studies, ethnobotanist James Duke  concluded that turmeric appears to outperform many pharmaceuticals in its effects against several chronic, debilitating diseases, and does so with virtually no adverse side effects (source).

I love to add turmeric to soups and other dishes but I don’t add it as often as I would like and I don’t use a large enough amount to reap all of its benefits. I had a little issue with a back spasm this week and immediately made an appointment with my chiropractor, Dr. Coy Roskosky, because he has a track record for always taking my pain away.

During my appointment he reminded me to increase my anti-inflammatory foods. In need of acute inflammation help, I was very close to gulping down a spoonful of turmeric but quickly changed my mind after gagging at the thought of it. That’s when I created these turmeric balls- they are quick, convenient and delicious! (I mean not as delicious as raw cacao brownies, but I definitely licked the bowel when I was done). These little turmeric balls not only taste great, but they contain other ingredients that work synergistically with the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric.

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