Recent studies from a major university in Boston named Tufts says that fruits are high in antioxidants. They rank the antioxidant value of fruits that are commonly eaten. This measurement is called Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity or for short (ORAC). This test measures the total amount of antioxidants in each fruit or vegetable.
Antioxidants are special compounds that protect against oxidation, or cellular damage caused by free radicals, and they have been shown to be effective in helping to prevent retinal diseases such as macular degeneration. Familiar antioxidants include vitamin E, vitamin C and beta carotene. It may be important to remember that, while antioxidant vitamin supplements are popular, it may be the combination of the nutrients in the foods that have the greatest effect.
Highest Ranking fruits for ORAC units per 100 grams (about 3″ ounces) Fruits: Goji Berry- Up to 25,000 ORAC levels, only certain companies look for the best, Prunes — 5570, Raisins — 2830, Blueberries — 2400, Blackberries — 2036, Strawberries — 1540, Raspberries — 1220, Plums — 949, Oranges — 750, Red grapes — 739, Cherries — 670, Kiwi fruit — 602, Grapefruit, pink — 483
Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) have long played an important role in traditional Eastern medicine, where the berries are primarily renowned for promoting longevity. They are thought to extend the life of a person through their powerful antioxidant action, thereby protecting them from premature aging. They are used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where they are believed to enhance immune system function, improve eyesight, protect the liver, and improve circulation, among other effects.
Goji berries contain 19 amino acids, including all 8 essential ones, 21 trace minerals, including germanium (anti-cancer, rarely found in foods), 13% protein, a complete spectrum of carotenoids (the richest source of all known foods), vitamins C, B, E, and essential fatty acids. They contain compounds known to be anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and active against all forms of leukemia. In addition, goji contains bioactive polysaccharides – produced by some plants as an extremely effective defense against attack by viruses, bacteria, fungi, soil-borne parasites, cell mutations, toxic pollutants, and environmental free radicals.
