8 reasons why you should be eating Acai berries

 

Fast fact: According to studies, acai berries have the highest antioxidant capacity of any food ever reported.

 

Acai is a native berry to the Amazonian rainforest and the acai palm tree grows in parts of Brazil, Columbia and Peru.The deep purple coloured berries have a harder and more oiler skin than red grapes.They have been used for centuries in South America for healing purposes and are known for their immune-stimulating, energy-boost abilities.

 

1) Good for the heart - The high level of anthocyanins, a plant antioxidant in acai berries, is associated with the ability to decrease cholesterol levels in the blood stream. Also high in plant sterol, acai helps to prevent blood clots, improves blood circulation and relaxes blood vessels.

 

2) Fights harmful organisms - Research from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro suggests that consuming acai extract may help fight harmful organisms. White blood cells were seen to engulf more yeast cells in studies, when acai berry powder was sprinkled on them during laboratory research, boosting immune cell function.

 

3) Aids weight loss - A laboratory study on flies suggests that pulp from the acai berry reduces the negative consequences of a high-fat diet.

 

4) Promotes healthy skin - Beauty products that contain acai can help give your skin a healthy glow. A natural alternative to chemical based skin-care products is acai oil. Brazilians have traditionally eaten acai berries to treat skin conditions.

 

5) Facilitates digestion - Like many berries, acai aids digestion with its detoxification capabilities.

 

6) Minimises irritation - Irritation associated with respiratory distress may be minimised with the consumption of the acai berry.

 

7) Energy boost - Acai extract consumption can lead to increased energy and stamina, due to its overall health benefits. It may also help battle fatigue and exhaustion.

8) Anti-aging effects - Acai contains extremely high levels of phytochemicals (antioxidants) which may contribute to slowing down the ageing process related to oxidative damage. One berry contains ten times more antioxidants than grapes and two times more antioxidants than blueberries.