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A National Treasure
The Ningxia wolfberry, a small red medicinal berry has been gaining attention as a functional superfood and antioxidant powerhouse since it hit the market in 2000.
Native to Ningxia Hui, China, wolfberry or Lycium barbarum L has long been regarded as a national treasure and has been used by Olympic coaches as their "secret weapon" to achieve gold medal results. It is now being studied world wide for its health benefits.
The wolfberry is virtually a vitamin capsule in the form of a fruit. Over 15% protein by weight, the wolfberry contains 18 amino acids, 21 essential minerals, 29 fatty acids, more beta carotene than carrots, more vitamin C than oranges and as much protein as bee pollen.
The Ningxia wolfberry is the richest known whole food source of natural vitamin B1 or thiamin, which is essential for energy production, carbohydrate metobolism and thyroid function.
Antioxidants: Good News for All
Protection from Free Radicals
The most common free radicals are created from oxygen from the air you breathe. Over time, like rust on a car, free radicals can cause oxidation in your body which leads to disease and premature aging.A 2005 Stanford study found that people with the weakest ability to scavenge superoxide free radicals lived over 35% shorter lives than controls.
Antioxidants are the heroes that neutralize these molecular bad guys. They help reduce inflammation, keep arteries flexible, and preserve the genetic material of each cell. While the human body produces some antioxidants naturally, others must be replenished through food sources.
We need approximately 5,000 ORAC units of bio-available antioxidants daily as a minimum to cope with the rate of oxidation. If we exercise, drink alcohol, have diabetes or live a stressful life, we need 2-3 times that amount. The solution is found in superfoods. One of the best known is the Ningxia wolfberry.
Top Antioxidant Foods
ORAC Scores
Antioxidants are visible to the eye as pigments in the color of plants. Some antioxidants have medicinal value. Among the numerous benefits of berries is ellagic acid found in the wolfberry. Research has shown that ellagic acid increases phase II liver enzyme activity, lending critical support to the liver's detox mechanisms.The ORAC score is a scientific standard that determines which foods or substances have significant antioxidant value. The higher the score, the greater the substance's power as an antioxidant. Of all major foods on the planet, the Ningxia wolfberry delivers the most antioxidants.
NingXia wolfberry (dried)- 303
Chinese wolfberry - 202
Acai - 184
Black Raspberry - 164
Pomegranate - 105
Prune - 57
Health Benefits of Wolfberry
A Delicious and Powerful Antioxidant
The wolfberry contains four polysaccharides that could be responsible for its strong immune boosting, anti-cancer, and cardioprotective effects.The wolfberry is especially high in several amino acids that have been studied for their ability to increase growth hormone secretion from the pituitary gland. Replacement of these youth hormones can increase longevity and reduce the signs of aging.
Of the 17 varieties of the wolfberry, only the Ningxia cultivar has been shown to possess the extraordinary nutrient and anti-oxidant content to support greater longevity.
The wolfberry combines good taste, high fiber, high protein, and low-glycemic index with extraordinary levels of the vital minerals and bioactive compounds needed to jump-start metabolism and renew energy levels.
Can the Wolfberry Enhance Immunity?
The immune system in the intestines and the rest of the body is composed of polysaccharides (glycoproteins). Its components are proteins that need the correct sugars to function properly. This is one of the reasons that refined sugars depress the immune system. Ningxia wolfberry provides the right sugars, thus enhancing the immune system.
- In a 1988 report published by the State Scientific and Technological Commission of China, scientists reported that the immune-enhancing effect of wolfberries showed a 700 point increase in white blood cell counts, a 10% increase in lymphocyte transformation rates, and a 75% increase in immunoglobin A (a decline is associated with aging).
- A 2003 study in China found that Ningxia wolfberry polysaccharide stimulated production of interleukin-2, a non-inflammatory part of the immune system that protects against cancer cells and microbial invasion.
- A 2001 study in Shanghai showed that the Ningxia wolfberry polysaccharide had an unusual combination of "good immunoactivity and antioxidant activity." The polysaccharide markedly spurred phagacyte immune cell activity and promoted lymphocyte upregulation."
- The Ningxia Institute in 1982-85 found that the wolfberry caused the blood of older people to noticeably revert to a younger state.
- A 2004 study in China found that mice treated with wolfberry polysaccharide for 10 days showed improved macrophage phagacytosis, spleen lymphocyte proliferation, cytotoxic T lymphocycte activity, and interleukin-2 expression. Polysaccharide-fed animals could also resist the growth of transplanted cancer tumor cells (sarcoma S180).
Wolfberry and Heart Disease
Reduces Inflammation
Recent research reveals that oxidative stress, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high C-reactive protein, and inflammation are the primary causes of heart disease.NingXia Wolfberry Research Summary:
* Reduces serum triglycerides and cholesterol by up to 80 percent
* Reduces inflammation
* Slows oxidative damage to LDL cholesterol
* Lowers blood pressure
* Reduces the stickiness of platelets and thickness of the blood - may potentiate the action of warfarin and aspirin.
Wolfberry and Cancer
Protecting DNA
The wolfberry can protect against cancer and premature aging in the following ways:
- Amplifies liver detoxification: Researchers have found powerful liver-supporting compounds in the NingXia wolfberry.
- Enhances immunity: The NingXia wolfberry contains polysaccharides that increase immune cells that kill mutated or cancerous cells.
- Protect cells from DNA damage and mutations: As the highest antioxidant food, the NingXia wolfberry protects cellular DNA against mutations from free radicals. Over a dozen studies have documented the wolfberry's clinical role in treating cancer.
Wolfberry and Liver Health
Restores Glutathione Levels
One of the most reliable predictors of life expectancy is liver health.More of the antioxidant, glutathione is located in the liver than any other organ, due to the liver's important role in detoxifying free radicals in the body.
As the most powerful antioxidant, the wolfberry has significant liver protecting qualities by restoring glutathione levels, even reversing hepatitis damage.
Wolfberry and Vision Vitality
High in Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Through a combination of minerals and carotenoids, the Ningxia wolfberry offers significant protection against age-related deterioration in eyesight.A study showed that 27 people consuming the wolfberry had a dramatic improvement in both dark adaptation and vitamin A and carotene content of their serum.
Another hallmark of aging is heightened oxidative damage to the eyes. A recent study found that 1 gram of wolfberry for two weeks to diabetic rats reduced the amount of lipid peroxides in their retinas by over 20 percent. Levels of antioxidant SOD increased by over 80 percent.
Wolfberry and Diabetes
Polysaccharides Help Cells Communicate
Eating the right foods can have a larger impact on blood sugar control and health than either insulin or hypoglycemic drugs, such as sulfonylureas.A recent research study suggests that wolfberries contain bioactive components that can reduce the amount of sugar present in our blood stream, thereby reducing the complications of diabetes.
A study published in 2006 found that consuming Ningxia wolfberry was able to almost completely reverse the DNA and oxidative damage caused by diabetes.
According to the US National Health Org., NingXia Red wolfberry is the only juice safe for diabetics because it is so low on the glycemic index.
Caution: Never stop taking any medication or insulin without proper supervision.
The Wisdom of Whole Foods
Natural Polyphenols Outperform Vitamins
Recent studies raise questions about how effective Vitamin C, E, and beta carotene really are. Why? Supplements don't provide the protection seen in diets rich in fruits and vegetables. The real benefit appears to be when you get these antioxidants from food based sources, such as fruits and vegetables.The fruits richest in antioxidants, such as wolfberries, raspberries, blueberries, and pomegranates may represent one of the most important natural therapies to slow the onset of degenerative diseases.
Who Can Drink Ningxia Wolfberry Juice?
Anyone with a digestive system, including pets. There have been no known side effects to Ningxia wolfberry, including to children. The latter should not be exposed to any whole food before six months of age. After that, smaller amounts compared to an adult are recommended until they appear to tolerate higher portions.Serving portions may vary from 1/2 ounce to 30 ounces per day.
Start with an ounce per day of Ningxia Red juice. If positive results are seen, increase the portion gradually until improvement in the condition is observed.
There is no best time to drink Ningxia Red. Do it when it fits your schedule. Some people notice such an increase in energy that they avoid it before bedtime. It is probably best on an empty stomach, since you do not want to dilute your stomach acid, which is vital for digestion and for healthy flora.
Sharing Great Health - Books
Discovery of the Ultimate Superfood: How the Ningxia Wolfberry And 4 Other Foods Help Combat Heart Disease, Cancer, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Diabetes And More
This book documents the science behind the ultimate superfood. Fifteen years in the making, it begins with D. Gary Young's worldwide travels to find the ingredients in centenarian diets - explains how he first discovered the Ningxia wolfberry in China and then brought it to the USA. It details how the Chinese fruit wascombined with other powerful whole foods to create Ningxia Red, a superfood capable of combating most of the degenerative diseases of our day. It documents all the studies, science, and benefits inherent in the Ningxia wolfberry.
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Amazon Price: (as of 11/09/2009) 
Wolfberry: Nature's Bounty of Nutrition and Health
This book objectively considers nutritional evidence that the Chinese wolfberry is the world's most nutrient dense food. 81 scientific publications are reviewed. Data comparisons are made to more common superfoods. This book fulfills the scientific credibility needed to benchmark wolfberry as a nutrient dense food for western diets and health.
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Amazon Price: $18.99 (as of 11/09/2009)
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Reversing Heart Disease: A Vital New Program to Help Prevent, Treat, and Eliminate Cardiac Problems Without Surgery
Dr. Whitaker has developed a complete cardiac care plan to help you prevent or repair heart disease damage the natural way.
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Amazon Price: $10.85 (as of 11/09/2009)
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Reversing Diabetes: Reduce or Even Eliminate Your Dependence on Insulin or Oral Drugs
This is an easy-to-follow program to keep you on course for the rest of your life.
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Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 11/09/2009)
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Ningxia Red Wolfberry Juice
Rejuvenating Ingredients
Michelle LaRue's Ningxia Red Testimony:"With a larger family, we can afford to have everyone drink only an ounce each day. But our health has been great since starting on NXR. After the first year on it, we were each tested on the Pharmanex BioPhotonic Scanner at our eye dr. office. It offers a "scientifically validated measurement of how diet and supplementation is protecting a person's cells and overall nutritional health." With scores typically ranging from 10,000-40,000, we were told the average American scores 18,000. My then 15-year old son, Josiah, scored 33,000, which amazed the guy testing us, as Josiah has short bowel syndrome with only 30% of his small intestine remaining. My husband scored 51,000. Isaiah, then 13, scored 75,000 followed by Isaac (8) whose score matched mine at 79,000. My little Micah, then 5-years old, sang "I win, I win!" with a score of 80,000. What a testimony to the health advantages of NingXia Red!"
What Others Have to Say:
Years ago, I was exposed to many chemicals as a hair stylist. Six years ago, I had Epstein-Barr virus, which drained my energy so much that I could not do a lot. Four years ago, I was exposed to toxic mold. Needless to say, my immune system was quite low, and I caught every cold or germ that crossed my path. I seemed especially susceptible to strep throat. When I began drinking wolfberry juice everyday, I found that my immune system became stronger. I do not catch any colds and have not had strep for over a year and a half! Three years ago, I had to take naps in the afternoon; since taking wolfberry juice my energy level stays constant all day. - Sherrill Schneider
What I love about the juice is you don't have to swallow pills. I just open a packet and down it during the day for extra energy. It really is awesome. - Doc Wah
I have been using wolfberry juice since last summer and I no longer need eye glasses because my vision has improved. I also have lost 35 pounds and I have more energy and sleep better. I'm hooked for life. - Cadie St. Romain
Delicious Wolfberry Recipes
Just sip one or two ounces every morning and you'll feel better in just a few weeks. And, Ningxia Red is absolutely delicious.Wolfberry Tea: Take a handful of the dried Young Living wolfberries and toss them in a glass gallon jar, added a half gallon of water and let the jar sit capped in the sun all day for sun tea. Use the reconstituted berries in your morning cereal or in healthy muffins, or just eat them right out of the sun tea. Should you need a little flavoring or sweetness, there is always Blue Agave or Ningxia Red.
These chewy, tart berries have a hunger-curbing edge over other fruit: 18 amino acids, which make them a surprising source of protein, says chef Sarah Krieger, R.D., spokeswoman in St. Petersburg, Florida, for the American Dietetic Association. (They also have more beta-carotene than carrots.) Snack on them midafternoon to stay satisfied until dinner. The calorie cost? Only 35 per tablespoon.
Trail Mix Mix 1/4 cup of the dried wolfberries with 1/4 cup raisins and 1/4 cup walnuts for a nourishing trail mix.
For dessert, pour 1/4 cup boiling water into a bowl with 2 tbsp dried berries; let sit 10 minutes. Drain, then spoon over 1/2 cup lowfat vanilla frozen yogurt.
Ningxia Red Resources and Information
How to Get Maximum Benefit from Ningxia Red
Ningxia Red is the only drink available that contains lemon and orange essential oils, which include the powerful antioxidant d-limonene. These oils alone have remarkable health-promoting benefits.
Ningxia Red is one product you'll really come to appreciate, especially if you make it part of your daily diet.
Drink your Ningxia Red first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Dilute with water, if desired. Sip slowly, holding it in your mouth for 30+ seconds, to enhance the absorption of the nutrients sublingually.
Ningxia Red is the perfect product for your monthly Autoship order. You'll have the best nutrition at your fingertips each morning.
Item No. 3003 1 PK
Item No. 3023, 2-PK
Item No. 3168 30 PK (1 FL. Oz. Each)
Ningxia Red is one product you'll really come to appreciate, especially if you make it part of your daily diet.
Drink your Ningxia Red first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Dilute with water, if desired. Sip slowly, holding it in your mouth for 30+ seconds, to enhance the absorption of the nutrients sublingually.
Ningxia Red is the perfect product for your monthly Autoship order. You'll have the best nutrition at your fingertips each morning.
Item No. 3003 1 PK
Item No. 3023, 2-PK
Item No. 3168 30 PK (1 FL. Oz. Each)
- Ningxia Red Direct
- Join our community of health professionals and advocates by subscribing to E-News and receive information on product releases, specials, and more.
To order any of the products mentioned, see your Young Living representative. If you are not a member of Young Living, it's free to join. First, go to Enroll Now. Then, choose Retail Customer, Preferred Customer (on monthly autoship) or Distributor (wholesale pricing with purchase of Ningxia Red Start Living Kit No. 3696). Once you've signed up as a free member, you can then place your order. Use the ID # you are assigned each time you place an order. Or call 1-800-371-3515 and use ID #703949.
Disclaimer: All information contained here is intended for educational purposes only. The ONLY Ningxia wolfberries we use are Young Living Essential Oils. We do not use others or would not. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Product Satisfaction Guarantee: If for any reason you are not satisfied with your Young Living products, you may return them within 30 days for a full refund, or within 90 days for a product exchange or credit toward a future purchase. - More about NingXia Red
- Find competitive comparison of the nutrient content of NingXia Red, Via Vente, XanGo, Noni, and Himalayan Goji.
Complimentary Links
Research Articles
Below is a list of links that explain why the Ningxia wolfberry holds such healing power.
- Health Secrets of Wolfberry
- Wolfberry: The World's Most Nutritious Food?
- Tha Amazing Liver
- By the age of 30, your liver is probably functioning at 75 percent of its ability.
- Cholesterol and Heart Disease
- Why cholesterol is not the cause of heart disease.
- Antioxidants and Aging
- Free radicals cause stiffness, poor circulation, and are implicated in a number of chronic diseases.
- The Antioxidant Health Plan
- Dr. Robert Youngston reports in his book that free radicals are probably the cause of inflammation.
- Eat Your Colors
- "When you see colors on your plate, you know you are doing good things for yourself.
- Can Foods Forestall Aging?
- Eating fruits and vegetables high in ORAC value build a healthy diet.
- Naomi Judd, Hepatitis C Survivor
- Country/western singer star Noami Judd shares important information...
- Antioxidants and Cancer
- How antioxidants attack cancer cells...
- Goji Berries
- Studies show Goji berries (wolfberry) are among the most nutritious foods on the planet.
- ORAC Scores
- Find the ORAC scores for foods and essential oils.
- Goji Berries are a Superfood for Optimal Health
- Find more information about the amazing health benefits of the goji (wolfberry).
- Ningxia Wolfberry Glyconutrients, Proteins, and Polysaccaharides
- Why does the small, red fruit of Lycium barbarum, Ningxia wolfberry, hold such healing and immune stimulating power?
Did you enjoy the Ningxia wolfberry? Did you find what you were looking for?
paulbarton wrote...
hi i love the site - you recently visited my lens at www.squidoo.com/healthysugars and left me a very good comment re refined sugar and ageing. I totally agree with you. The wolfberry is fascinating - is it available outside of the USA - we are in the UK and i doubt it will grow in our cooler wet climate.
Have you seen our lens on trehalose www.squidoo.com/trehalose
Posted October 14, 2008
faye_durham wrote...
Thanks for your comments and questions.
Susan, Ningxia Red is a superfood that contains pomegranate juice. It has been preserved with mild heat. Overheating a food rich in phytonutrients can slash bioactivity by over 90% and even render some of the most therapeutic components inert and useless.
Studies have shown that the vitamin C content in packaged juices is reduced by up to 75% depending on how much heat was used in the aseptic packaging.
In the case of complex natural substances such as pomegranate or wolfberry juice, the loss of bioactivity with pasteurization can be catastrophic.
The secret to creating a superfood is not overcooking it!
Thanks again for your feedback!
Posted January 19, 2008
RinchenChodron wrote...
I don't miss my Ningxia Red juice - take it daily and it keeps me healthy!
Marsha Camblin
http://www.geocities.com/rdtibet/soundhealing.htm
Posted December 18, 2007
by faye_durham
My name is Faye Durham. I am a clinical research monitor and health care consultant in natural health care. I specialize in therapeutic nutrition, ar... (more)
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