What is the acai berry?
The acai berry is an inch-long reddish, purple fruit. It comes from the acai palm tree (Euterpe oleracea), which is native to Central and South America.
Research on the acai berry has focused on its possible antioxidant activity. Theoretically, that activity may help prevent diseases caused by oxidative stress such as heart disease and cancer.
Is the acai berry healthy?
Acai contains several substances called anthocyanins and flavonoids.
The word anthocyanin comes from two Greek words meaning “plant” and “blue.” Anthocyanins are responsible for the red, purple, and blue hues in many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Foods that are richest in anthocyanins — such as blueberries, red grapes, red wine, and acai — are very strongly colored, ranging from deep purple to black.
Anthocyanins and flavonoids are powerful antioxidants that help defend the body against life’s stressors. They also play a role in the body’s cell protection system. Free radicals are harmful byproducts produced by the body. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants may interfere with aging and the disease process by neutralizing free radicals.
By lessening the destructive power of free radicals, antioxidants may help reduce the risk of some diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
Are there known health benefits of acai berries?
Some studies show that acai fruit pulp has a very high antioxidant capacity with even more antioxidant content than cranberry, raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, or blueberry. Studies are ongoing, though, and the jury is still out.
People eat acai berries to address various health conditions. But so far, acai berries have no known health benefit that’s any different than that of other similar fruits.
Can acai berries boost weight loss?
Scientists are learning more about the functional power of superfoods, such as the acai berry. Although acai is touted in some weight loss products, few studies have tested the benefit of acai in promoting weight loss.
For now, plenty of research supports eating a diet rich in antioxidants. There’s no doubt that berries and other fruits are a key part of any healthy diet promoting weight loss. The jury’s still out on whether there is something special about acai’s ability to shed excess pounds.
Original source: webmd.com
Dr. Perricone’s No. 1 Superfood: Açaí
Nature’s Energy Fruit
It may seem odd to start this list of superfoods with one you’ve likely never even heard of, but studies have shown that this little berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world! Açaí (ah-sigh-ee) is the high-energy berry of a special Amazon palm tree.
Learn the truth about Oprah and claims about açaí.
Harvested in the rainforests of Brazil, açaí tastes like a vibrant blend of berries and chocolate. Hidden within its royal purple pigment is the magic that makes it nature’s perfect energy fruit. Açaí is packed full of antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids. Although açaí may not be available in your local supermarket, you can find it in several health food and gourmet stores
Original Source: www.oprah.com
ACAI
Place of origin: Acai berries grow in the Amazon rain forest region of Brazil.
What it is: Acai is a tiny purple berry (and powerful super fruit) that grows on palm trees.
What are the benefits: Acai berries help support natural energy; healthy hair, skin and nails, and antioxidant levels.
Why it’s important for women: Women need protein, fiber, omega fatty acids and antioxidants. Acai berries are naturally rich in protein; in fact, they have the protein profile of an egg but are much easier to digest. Acai berries also are naturally rich in fiber which supports a healthy digestive system and healthy weight control. These tiny berries also contain heart-healthy omega fatty acids, which supply your body with natural energy, and support a healthy heart. Acai berries also contain powerful polyphenol antioxidants that help fight free radicals and oxidative stress, and can even slow down the aging process.
Original source: http://drlindsey.com
WHAT IS THE PUREST MOST CONCENTRATED FORM OF ACAI?
Acaivie (Patented) Mona Vie is the only drink that has pure acaivie. This company had isolated the best parts of the Acai Berry compounded them and put them back into this delicious juice. The health benefits have been proven over and over again in the lab. Nothing comes close to giving a person this much nutrition.
Any fruit or 100% fruit juice counts as part of the Fruit Group. Fruits may be fresh, canned, frozen, or dried, and may be whole, cut-up, or pureed.
Drink It For Life 