Goji Vs. Acai

The goji berry and the acai berry are making a statement across the United States and are being called the "superfruits" of the future. Although the scientific research on these berries is minimal in humans, they have centuries of use by people who swear by their positive effects. These beneficial berries are healthful foods to incorporate into any diet in moderation.

Origin

The goji berry, commonly called the wolfberry, is commonly grown in north-central China, but its origin is unknown. The acai berry comes from the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil.

Forms

The goji berry has many seeds in the center that can vary from fruit to fruit. The acai berry is nearly 90 percent seed, and the fresh berry has very little pulp. Both berries cannot survive in their fresh form outside of their habitat and cannot survive shipments to other locations. This means they are converted to powder, dried or freeze-dried before being shipped.

Edibility

Traditionally, goji berries are cooked before consumption. They were also often steeped as a tea. The dried goji berry has the consistency of a raisin and has a sweet and tangy taste. Acai berries are traditionally eaten fresh and have a taste that resembles red wine and chocolate.

Vision

Both the goji berry and the acai berry are beneficial for vision. Acai contains vitamin A, which helps in preserving night vision. Goji berries contain zeaxanthin, an antioxidant that prevents age-related macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 65.

Nutrients

The acai berry and the goji berry contain antioxidants that fight diseases and increase the immune system. The acai berry, however, contains all of the omega fatty acids that aid in heart as well as mental health.