Acai Berry - As Seen on Oprah Winfrey

Health Benefits of Acai

The Acai berry, the fruit of a palm tree which grows in the South American regions of Brazil and Peru is a nutritional powerhouse.  However, the fruit is 90% seed pit, with only 10% being edible fruit and has a fat content, meaning that this is a fruit with a very short shelf life. The fruit is widely consumed locally but for export, it must be preserved by freezing acai pulp or making it into freeze dried acai powder.

The frozen and powdered form of this berry is said to be rich in protein, fiber, calorie, vitamins A and C, calcium and iron. Acai berry in its powder form is a strong antioxidant against superoxide and hydroxyl radicals. Its juice is a stronger antioxidant than red wine, orange juice and tea. Anthocyanin, the antioxidant found in this fruit is extremely beneficial to the health. It is the highest valued edible berry in the world according to ORAC.

Consuming Acai berry in most of its forms improves the functioning of the digestive system and helps stimulate brain responses. The fiber content of the berry detoxifies the body effectively. This leads to healthier and more radiant looking skin.

Acai berries also fights cancer, has a higher protein content than eggs and is beneficial to circulatory function and some say it even increases libido. There are also powerful anti-inflammatory properties possessed by this berry and it is helpful for managing the symptoms of diabetes.

Oprah Winfrey says: “This little berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world. It can often be found in juice form in health food and gourmet stores.” With the endorsement of this influential of a figure, no wonder people are flocking to stores to find this superfood.

The high protein content of the acai berry can keep cholesterol levels under control and stimulate the digestive system. Acai is a heart healthy food too; the omega 3 fatty acids it contains are as effective for your health as the ones found in olive oil! The fatty acids and vitamin E found in the acai helps keep your skin looking youthful.

The best part of consuming the Acai berry is that it can be done in many forms. You can eat the berry as a fruit, or make it into a pulp or even have it in its powdered form. Acai berry can be used to make frozen yogurt, mixed with other fruits to make smoothies and even milkshakes with the powder.

Athletes like the natural energy they get from acai, along with all of the other nutritional benefits offered by this fruit. The acai berry is becoming increasingly available and many are choosing acai over supplement capsules and powders..