Black Goji

Overview

Black goji (Lycium ruthenicum) berries are anthocyanin-rich fruits with exceptionally high pigment density compared with many common berries [1]. Dietary flavonoid and anthocyanin intake has been associated with cognitive endpoints in controlled feeding contexts [2].

Within the BRAIN Diet framework, black goji is a concentrated polyphenol-class food used in small portions for anthocyanin diversity rather than as a staple calorie source [1,2].

Key Nutritional Highlights

• Anthocyanin-dense berry; pigment content strongly exceeds many common cultivated berries [1].
• High-flavonoid dietary patterns link to cognitive improvements in human trials [2].
• Low typical serving sizes; nutrient and polyphenol intake scales with portion.
• Part of diverse berry/polyphenol strategy rather than a single-source reliance [2].

Food Context

Synergies

• Part of diverse polyphenol intake
• Pair with other C3G-rich foods

Preparation

• Can be consumed dried or fresh
• Supports detoxification pathways

Recipes

no recipes found

Nutrient Tables (per 100 g)

Core nutrients

Nutrient	Amount per 100 g	% RDA per 100 g
Energy	52.7 kcal	—
Protein	0.6 g	—
Total fat	0.3 g	—
Carbohydrates	13.5 g	—
Sugars	8 g	—
Fibre	1.3 g	—

Key micronutrients

Nutrient	Amount per 100 g	% RDA per 100 g
Iron	0 mg	0%
Zinc	0 mg	0.4%
Magnesium	6.6 mg	1.6%
Calcium	4 mg	0.4%
Potassium	186.3 mg	5.5%

Reference intakes: US Dietary Reference Intakes for adults (19–50 years; using the higher of male/female values where they differ).

Data provenance (core / micronutrient panel): USDA FoodData Central, Plum, black, with skin, raw, FDC ID 2710837, API, per 100 g edible portion, last checked 2026-03-14

Substances

Substances in this food: editorial (Overview / literature) plus analytical (nutrition table).

5 substances in this food

Vitamin C (Ascorbate)

Antioxidant; supports iron absorption; neuronal SVCT2 transport

Zn²⁺

Zinc

Cofactor in neurotransmission and antioxidant enzymes; dopamine modulation

Mg²⁺

Magnesium

Enzymatic cofactor (>300 reactions); neurotransmitters; mitochondria; redox balance

Ca²⁺

Calcium

Bone health; neurotransmission; interacts with vitamin D and K2

K⁺

Potassium

Electrolyte for nerve transmission, muscle function, and blood pressure regulation

References

[1] Anthocyanin-dense berry; pigment content strongly exceeds many common cultivated berries. Neshatdoust & Saunders 2016. High-flavonoid intake induces cognitive improvements linked to changes in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor: Two randomised, controlled trials

[2] High-flavonoid dietary patterns link to cognitive improvements in human trials. Boots & Haenen 2008. Health effects of quercetin: From antioxidant to nutraceutical