The Açaí palm, also known as cabbage palm, bears edible clusters of dark purple, berry-like fruit. This tropical specie is native to South America and have a number of health and beauty benefits. The acai berry’s name means “fruit that cries” and comes from a language of the native people of the region. Acai berries contain antioxidants, fiber and heart-healthy fats that can be eaten raw, or the juice can be used to make smoothies, drinks, ice cream, or jelly. Acai berries are perishable but have significant nutritional values when eaten fresh.
Traditionally, the native people in Brazil used the acai berries to make a tea that they used to soothe fever and heal skin conditions. They also boiled the roots and used it to treat menstrual pain and diabetes. The açaí berry is credited with giving the people of the Amazon their strength and energy and for keeping them healthy. Acai berry products have become popular in the United States, and are being marketed as remedies for weight-loss, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses, but so far there’s no definitive scientific evidence to support these claims. Studies found that, by far, acai had the highest oxygen radical scavenging activity of any food measured to date. This strongly supports the acai’s antioxidant properties.
Research have found that acai has a high antioxidant content, and laboratory studies have shown that acai berries demonstrate anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activity.
The facts so far:
- The fiber found in the acai berry skin and pulp can aid digestion. Fiber can help prevent or relieve constipation and may help support a healthy cardiovascular system.
- Acai is naturally high in essential fatty acids similar to olive oil. The link between essential fatty acids, heart health and a healthy nervous system is well documented.
- Acai berries contain amino acids which help promote muscle performance, energy production, endurance, and strength.
- Acai berries are extremely high in Vitamin C and is also a source of Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 and E. It is also a source of calcium, magnesium, zinc and copper.
- Acai berry has been recognized as one of the world’s highest Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity (ORAC) foods. This is a measurement of how well antioxidants can neutralize free radicals.
Acai is an antioxidant powerhouse; it has more than double the antioxidants of blueberries and nearly ten times that of grapes. Acai berry may help you maintain a young and radiant skin because antioxidants help prevent cell damage by free radicals. The topical formulations can help protect the skin from environmental aggressors and delay the appearance of aging. The fatty acids in the acai berries support the structure and firmness of your skin and its vitamins and minerals are important in protecting your connective tissues.
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To Your Success,
Althea
Althea A. McLeish Wilson, RN, MSN
Promoting inner health & outer beauty!
Helping you thrive, not just survive!!
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