These days, people are always in the habit of tossing a small handful of goji berries into their teacups, steeping them with boiling water, believing it can improve eyesight, nourish the kidneys, and supplement vitamins. But is this method of drinking goji berries in water truly effective? Goji berries also have an expiration date. So, what's the best way to eat them for maximum benefit?
Goji berries are rich in various trace elements and vitamins, which can nourish yin and boost the immune system. However, most of the vitamins in goji berries are water-soluble and can be easily destroyed by heat. If you want to use goji berries to supplement vitamins, it's best to briefly soak the dried berries in warm water, or sprinkle a handful over your dishes or congee after they are cooked, using them as an ingredient. This way, the loss of vitamins can be minimized.
The reason goji berries are beneficial for the eyes is that they are rich in nutrients like carotene, vitamins, calcium, and iron, earning them the nickname "bright-eye berries." People with a weak constitution and poor resistance can eat more of them. However, goji berries have a strong effect of warming the body, so it's best for people suffering from colds, fevers, inflammation, or diarrhea to avoid them. Additionally, goji berries also have an "expiration date," and spoiled ones should not be eaten.