Golden berries: healthy properties and benefits

Very similar to Goji berries, the inca berries or golden berries They are native to the Amazon region and belong to the Solanaceae family. Its appearance is a little larger than raisins; They are yellow in color and have a bittersweet citrus flavor.

The seeds have been used for centuries to regulate intestinal transit and avoid the accumulation of toxins in the digestive tract.

And in the traditional inca medicinethe berries were used for their healing properties in cases of cancer, leukemia, malaria, asthma, diabetes, dermatitis and rheumatism.

Inca berries (Physalis peruviana) are rarely found fresh, as they are highly perishable fruits. We can find them in specialized markets or as cake decorations. Its most common form is dehydrated, like raisins. It is usually consumed in granolas, as appetizers, smoothies and desserts.

Properties of golden berries

The golden berries, which are now grown in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, as well as South America, are a source of energy and few calories: According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 100 g of these berries have only 53 kcal.

They contain amino acids (16% of its composition are proteins), phosphorus, provitamin A, good for eyesight; vitamin C, to strengthen the immune system; and group B vitamins such as B1, B2, B6, which help us regulate the carbohydrate cycle and the metabolization of the rest of the nutrients, and contribute to the health of the skin, mucous membranes, and hair.

Healthy benefits of its antioxidants

They are rich in antioxidants (especially bioflavonoids, known for their anti-inflammatory, antihistamine and anticancer properties) and pectinsa type of fiber that helps us regulate cholesterol levels in the blood.

prevents numerous chronic and degenerative diseases like cancer. The antioxidants –such as the carotenoids and polyphenols it contains– can neutralize the effects of free radicals, responsible for cell mutation and degeneration.

Its antioxidants also help reduce inflammation. If you suffer from arthritis, gout or any type of muscle pain, they can alleviate this condition and improve your general health, including cardiovascular health, as they reduce inflammation of the arteries and veins, lower blood pressure and prevent the development of arteriosclerosis.

Stabilize cholesterol and glucose levels

The oleic and linoleic fatty acids of these berries contribute to the lowering triglycerides and “bad” cholesterol (LDL), restore total cholesterol levels and protect cardiovascular health.

The extract of the leaves has been shown to have positive properties for the regulation of blood glucose levels.

A study by the National University of Rwanda and the Official University of Bukavu (Republic of Congo) showed that ingesting 100 mg of this extract for each kilo of weight significantly reduced glucose levels after 30 minutes of ingestion.

The positive effects of withanolides

the golden berries could prevent cancer. They contain withanolides, a type of steroid very similar to the ginsenosides found in ginseng. have a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activitywith the ability to induce the death of diseased cells.

Although more scientific evidence is still lacking, it has been seen that one of the withanolides of the golden berries is associated with the liver scar prevention and the reversal of hepatic degradation. In addition, at the renal level it also helps to eliminate toxins by stimulating urination, and the expulsion of fats, salts and toxins from the lymphatic system.