Qualities and Benefits of Acai Berries

Acai (ah_sigh_ee) Berries are native to South America and are about the size and shape of a grape. They grow on the acai palm similar to how bananas grow and are harvested in Brazilian rainforests. The acai berry has a very rich tropical fruit flavor with a hint of chocolate and provides many nutritional benefits. Being unrecognized until recently, acai berries are surging in popularity; and for good reason. There are many benefits that acai berries can provide. In today’s health conscious society, new information is being discovered all the time about the obvious health benefits of natural foods.

The main qualities Acai Berries include:

1. Very high levels of protein, amino acids and omega 3 fatty acids. These properties are responsible for muscle maintenance, managing a healthy heart and cholesterol level.

2. Contain twice the antioxidants of blueberries and 10-30 times more antioxidants than red wine. Antioxidants are one the main ways your body fights infection and disease.

3. Promotes better sleep. Ironically, even while improving your energy, acai berries promote a more restful sleep because of their rich combination of nutritional ingredients.

4. Greater energy. Full of vitamins and nutrients, the acai berry is the perfect alternative to artificial energy supplements.

5. High in fiber. Fiber-rich foods are essential to promoting a healthy digestive system. Research studies also suggest that soluble fibers may help lower blood cholesterol and insoluble fiber may help reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancers.

6. Improves mental alertness. Think you need that cup of coffee in the morning to help wake you up? Acai berries offer the same effect, but without the highs and lows that come with the caffeine.

7. Source of Theo-bromine. Theo-bromine is a chemical similar to caffeine. Theo-bromine affects the kidneys because, like caffeine, it is a diuretic. It helps to shed extra cellular water and in this way affects the kidneys and renal system. It also acts to help open air passages in the lungs, which in turn increases oxygen intake, resulting in increased endurance, strength and athletic performance.

With all of the new 'wonder foods' appearing almost on a daily basis, it's hard to sift through all the information that comes our way. I hope I've given you some basic knowledge about the acai berry and its obvious benefits. Our health is one of our most important attributes and it's only natural to try to keep it at a peak level. With moderate exercise, plenty of rest, and a balanced diet that may include acai berries, we can live life at the peak of enjoyment and health.

Other Benefits of Acai Berries

Recent studies have shown that Acai Berries provide the following benefits:

Ø  Increase in energy

Ø  A better digestion

Ø  Improvement of sleep

Ø  Being mentally alert

Ø  It has a large number of proteins and lipids, which gave a strong boost in energy and strength.

Ø  It contains a large amount of many minerals and vitamins such as vitamin B3, vitamin B2, vitamin B1, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, calcium, potassium and phosphorus.

Ø  The fruit proved in studies to have more than 30 times the Antocyanine (antioxidant) from dark grapes.

Ø  Acai fruit is rich in dietary fiber.

Ø  There are two essential fatty acids - Omega-6 (linoleic acid) and omega-9 (oleic acid). These fatty acids help to control cholesterol levels.

Ø  The acai berry is considered one of the most nutrition packed fruits of South America.

Ø  It encourages detoxifying. Is better than most other colon cleansers on the market.

Ø  It's useful as an aid to weight loss

Ø  A study showed that it combats leukemia (in the laboratory at least).