Chocolate Banana Goji Drink

Goji berries grow on an evergreen shrub found in temperate and subtropical regions in China, Mongolia and in the Himalayas in Tibet. 

Goji berries red berries that look like red raisins.

Goji berries have been used for 6,000 years by herbalists in China, Tibet and India.

Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, particularly carotenoids such as beta carotene and zeaxanthin. One of zeaxanthin's key roles is to protect the retina of the eye by absorbing blue light and acting as an antioxidant. In fact, increased intake of foods containing zeathanthin may decrease the risk of developing age related macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in people over the age of 65.

Goji berries have a mild tangy taste that is slightly sweet and sour. They have a similar shape and chewy texture as raisins.

Possible drug interaction… Goji berries may interact with anticoagulant drugs (commonly called "blood-thinners"), such as warfarin (Coumadin). There was one case report published in the journal Annals of Pharmacotherapy of a 61 year old woman who had an increased risk of bleeding, indicated by an elevated international normalized ratio (INR). She had been drinking 3 to 4 cups daily of goji berry tea. Her blood work returned to normal after discontinuing the goji berry tea.

Research Source: About

This is one tasty drink and healthy.

Chocolate Banana Goji Drink

Copyrighted 2013, Christine’s Pantry. All rights reserved.

Ingredients:

1 banana

1 tablespoon chocolate cacao powder

1/8 cup sunflower kernels

1/8 cup goji berries

1/2 teaspoon honey

1/2 teaspoon Mexican vanilla blend

1 cup almond milk

Directions:

Blend all ingredients together, until smooth. Chill before serving. Enjoy!