There are numerous
healthy berries that would be a great addition to your diet. The acai berry is one of the healthiest berries you will ever find.
Acai is an indigenous berry commonly found in the rain forests of the
Amazon. This antioxidant-rich fruit has been heralded for centuries as a
healing, immune-stimulating, energy-boosting fruit. An exotic relative
of the blueberry and cranberry, research has shown that this
antioxidant-rich berry may be able to support in the prevention of
diseases associated with oxidative damage, not to mention many other
health benefits.
The list below offers a little more insight into some of the many health benefits of acai.
1. Heart Health
Similar to red wine, research shows that acai berries are extremely high in anthocyanins, a form of plant
antioxidant
associated with the ability to lower cholesterol levels in the blood
stream. They are also rich in plant sterols that provide
cardio-protective benefits to our cells. It does this by preventing
blood clots, improving overall blood circulation, and relaxing the blood
vessels.
2. Antiviral, Antibacterial & Anti-Parasitic Agent
Scientists from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro have shown
that consuming acai extract can help fight both viral and parasitic
infections. However, I would personally recommend
Oregano Oil for this same task.
3. Aids in Weight Loss
Known by nutritionists as a super-food, acai may help us not only
lose weight,
but maintain a healthy weight. One interesting study from the National
Institutes of Aging found that pulp from the acai berry had the ability
to reduce the negative effects of a high-fat diet in laboratory studies
on flies.
4. Promotes Skin Health
Currently, many modern beauty products are carrying acai oil, again
due to the oil’s high antioxidant content. What is more, acai oil is a
great natural alternative to chemical based skin-care products that harm
the skin in the long-run. Taken internally, the berries can also give
your skin a healthier glow. In fact, Brazilians have been eating acai
berries for centuries to treat skin conditions.
7. Helps with Digestive Upset
Taking acai may also aid in keeping our digestive system clean and in
optimal function. The berries have powerful detoxification capacities
in the human body and is a well-known traditional source of dietary
fiber. Of course, there are many other high fiber foods that can do the
same thing, including many other types of berries.
3. Anti-Allergenic Substance
Acai berries contain anti-inflammatory properties that may prevent
the typical inflammation response associated with allergic reactions.
4. Improved Cellular Health
On a general level, the anthocyanins found in acai play a role in our
cellular protection system, helping to keep cells strong against the
invasion of free radicals.
8. May Help Prevent Cancer
Acai is very high in Vitamin C and ellagic acid, an
immune-system-boosting combination that has been shown to suppress the
growth of cancer. One study published in the Journal of Agriculture and
Food Chemistry found that polyphenolic compounds extracted from acai
could reduce cancer cell proliferation by 56-86%. It is thought that
acai’s phytochemcials can stop the process of carcinogenesis on a
molecular level, killing off tumorous cells before they multiply. Acai
is particularly indicated for the prevention of prostate enlargement.
9. Anti-Aging Effects
Extremely high in many forms of plant phytochemicals (antioxidants),
acai berries may contribute to an ability to slow or reverse typical
processes of ageing related to inflammation and cellular oxidative
damage. In fact, the berries are one of the planets highest sources of
antioxidants, with one berry holding ten times the amount of
antioxidants as grapes, and two times the amount of blueberries.
10. Boost in Energy
Due its overall health benefits, taking acai extract can lead to an
increased overall level of energy and stamina, and may aid to combat
fatigue and exhaustion. Whenever you need a boost, simply eat a handful
of berries and you will be ready to go in no time!
11. Better Sex
This famous red berry has also been linked to overall increased blood
circulation in the human body, a phenomenon that may contribute to a
boost in sex drive, especially for men.
12. Improves Mental Function
Preliminary research studies show that acai may prevent mental imbalance in menopausal women.
If possible, try to buy locally grown, organically-certified Acai.
Not only are they safer, but taste better too. If you can’t find acai
berries, another good source of antioxidant fruits are
goji berries.
