| Acai Berries |
For centuries, acai (ah-sigh-ee) berries have been consumed by Brazilian tribes because of their health benefits and great flavor. Acai berries look like dark purple grapes, only slightly smaller, but they cannot be eaten like grapes. Ninety percent of the acai berry is its pit; during processing, the seed and pulp are separated. Acai puree is used in juice, yogurts and desserts; however, it can also be eaten alone and tastes like a chocolate berry.
In the 1990s, acai berries were introduced to the U.S. as the hottest export from Brazil after the string bikini and the matching wax job, and more recently, everyone has been jumping on the acai berry bandwagon in the hopes of improving their overall health. So, how healthy are acai berries? We’ve done the research for you: here’s a breakdown of the all-important compounds these tiny super-berries contain.
Antioxidants
Red and purple fruits and veggies are known to be high in antioxidants. The same holds true for acai berries, which are high in anthocyanins, an antioxidant that gives them their deep purple color. Anthocyanins help combat premature aging and also have cardiovascular benefits. They help prevent blood clots and improve circulation. What’s also great about the acai berry is the amount of antioxidants it possesses. Acai berries contain 10 times the antioxidants of grapes and twice the amount found in blueberries. Red wine is still great to sip with your lean cut of red meat, but acai berries have 10-30 times more anthocyanins than a glass of red wine. Vitamin E, also known for its antioxidant properties, is found in acai berries.
Phytosterols
Phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, are similar in structure and function to cholesterol in the body. They lower cholesterol absorption and, as a result, may help lower total cholesterol levels in the body. Some clinical trials have also shown that phytosterols can improve symptoms of an enlarged prostate and urinary tract health.
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Fatty Acids
Healthy fats omega-6 (linoleic acid) and omega-9 (oleic acid) are found in acai berries in ratios similar to those found in olive oil. You wouldn’t want to guzzle olive oil, but acai berries taste great. Fatty acids are good for a healthy nervous system. They are also utilized in repairing muscles after intense exercise. The fatty acids keep you in good health so you can continue to work out. Omega-6 and omega-9 lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and maintain HDL (good cholesterol), and improve the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Fiber
Fiber, which is found in the skin of many fruits, aids in digestion. It collects all the gunk in the intestinal tract and makes it easier to pass. That’s also believed to be the reason fiber can help lower cholesterol and lowers the risk of heart disease. Fiber also helps prevent those spikes in blood sugar and the afternoon slump. Fiber slows the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, therefore controlling blood-sugar levels.
health boost
Acai berries are very perishable, so the pulp is primarily found freeze-dried in gourmet or health food stores. The pulp can be used in many ways in snacks or desserts, and is usually combined with pineapple, banana and pomegranate flavors. Acai berries can also be paired with guarana to achieve an energy boost similar to caffeine.
Due to the high fiber content of acai berries, it is recommended that you add them slowly to your diet. Adding too much fiber too soon doesn’t give your intestinal tract time to adjust and can lead to bloating, gas, cramps or constipation. Also, note that anyone with a pollen allergy may not want to eat acai berries. In more serious cases, acai berries may interfere with chemotherapy drugs.
