Acai is a berry which is native to the rain forests of the Amazon. This antioxidant-rich fruit has been praised for centuries as a healing, immune-stimulating, energy boosting fruit. A relative of the blueberry and cranberry, research has shown that it may be able to support in the prevention of many diseases associated with oxidative damage, and has numerous health benefits that promote anti-aging, vitality, and sexual longevity.
The secret behind the Acai berry is in its ability to promote cellular repair from free radical damage by its high level of antioxidants. 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.
ORAC, or Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, is a measure of a food’s antioxidant capacity to absorb and neutralize free radicals. According to the USDA, the acai berry’s ORAC activity is more than 200 percent higher than that of any other known fruit or vegetable, making it one of the most nutrient-dense fruits. It has over ten times more antioxidants than red grapes and even wine. These antioxidants are known as anthocyanins, which play a role in our cellular protection system, helping to keep cells strong against the invasion of free radicals. Because Acai berries protect against invasion of free radicles in the body, it is regarded as a secret in maintaining an overall youthful look and keeps skin looking young by protecting the integrity and elasticity of the dermal layer. Many scientific studies are being conducted in order to further investigate in Acai’s ability to slow or reverse typical processes of aging related to inflammation and cellular oxidative damage.
Anthocyanins in Acai berry are also 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.
Acai is very high in Vitamin C and ellagic acid, an immune-system-boosting combination that has been shown to possibly suppress the growth of cancer. One study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry found that polyphenolic compounds extracted from acai reduced cancer cell proliferation by 56-86%. It is thought that acai’s phytochemcials may stop the process of carcinogenesis on a molecular level, killing off tumorous cells before they multiply. Much conversation and further research is investigating acai berries ability to possibly aid in the cure of prostate cancer.
Due its overall health benefits, taking acai extract can lead to an increased overall level of energy and stamina, and can aid to combat fatigue and exhaustion. Acai berry also increases blood circulation in the human body, is used by athletes to recover from strenuous workouts. Because of its ability to increase blood circulation and to boost energy by providing free radical protection, Acai can contribute to providing a boost in sex drive, and is seen as an overall reproductive tonic for women.
Acai berry is very rich in healthy Omega faty acids. Nearly 50% of the Acai berry is fat – with 74% of the fat coming from healthy unsaturated fats such as Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9.
Acai has over 1000 IU of Vitamin A in every 100 grams. It also contains 19 different amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Acai is also an excellent source of plant sterols. Plant sterols (or photosterols) have numerous health benefits, and are seen as tonics for the heart and digestive system functioning.
