Acai’s Properties Described

Acai berries are found off the coasts of Peru and Brazil.  Since their discovery by  the United States, science has been aflutter over this highly concentrated new super fruit.  Acai berries are about an inch in circumference, but smaller than a grape.  When ripe, they are dark purple in color.  Acai contains a multitude of beneficial compounds, including two substances called Anthocyanins and Flavonoids.  The word Anthocyanin comes from two Greek words meaning “plant” and “blue”.  Anthocyanins give fruits and vegetables their dark red, purple, and blue coloring that we find so attractive.  The darker the hue of color, the more anthocyanins it contains.  Foods rich in anthocyanins include eggplant, red grapes, black cherries, blueberries, and of course Acai berries.

The Brazilians have known about the Acai’s herbalist properties for centuries.  They use every part of the Acai tree, from the berries to the bark of the tree.  We have recently discovered the small, power-house berry, but we quickly learned that the anthocyanins and flavonoids are very powerful antioxidants.  They help the body to fight off diseases and sickness, by increasing the immune system and promoting cell production.  Research shows that eating a diet rich in antioxidants is natures way to staying healthy.  The maintenance of your body is highly connected to the vitamins and minerals you put in it.   The Acai berry contains other beneficial properties that aid in fighting free radicals, lowering cholesterol, aiding in good heart health, and increasing energy (Vitamin B12, fiber, healthy omega fats, protein, and minerals).