Acai the Superfruit

The other day when I went shopping I passed by a woman who was talking about Acai. She caught my attention because anything that has to do with health I’m interested in. After I learned about it I noticed there were little cups of it and I took one and drank it. Though it was bitter, I must say I enjoyed its taste.

I learned a lot about a fruit I’d never heard of. For starters the correct way to pronounce it is (ah sah ee), it’s not Akai like I was told many people call it. Though the pronunciation has nothing to do with the health benefits, I just thought I would throw that in.

What is Acai?

Acai is an inch long purple fruit that comes from the acai palm tree, native to Central and South America. I guess that’s the reason why I had never heard from it. When I looked at the package, it said, made in Brazil.

The acai berry is rich in antioxidants because it contains substances called anthocyanins and flavonoids. This berry helps prevent diseases caused by stress, heart disease and even cancer. Studies also show that eating berries on a daily basis lowers your blood pressure and raises good cholesterol.

Acai contains several substances called anthocyanins and flavonoids that help against stress. They also protect your cells. Harmful byproducts are produced in your system and by eating a diet rich in antioxidants it may combat aging and the disease process by neutralizing these free radicals. Foods that are rich in anthocyanins such as blueberries, red grapes, red wine, and acai are strong in color.

What are the health benefits of acai berries?          

There are some studies that show that acai’s pulp is very high in antioxidants, more than cranberry, raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry, however people still question how valid this may be, but we must remember that anything that has antioxidants is good for you because of the wear and tear your system may receive that antioxidants prevent or stop.

Acai and Weight Loss?

Every day we learn more about foods that help you lose weight. There are little studies done about the benefit of eating acai when it comes to weight loss but research does support having a diet rich in antioxidants and when it comes to this, acai is no stranger. Including berries in our diet along with other fruits is a good way to manage your weight along with exercising.

Does Acai have any side effects?

Nowadays many people have allergies or some type of hypersensitivity to foods or berries, if you happen to be one them you may want to avoid acai altogether or eat it in moderation, other than that it’s safe to eat.

How do you eat Acai?

When I bought Acai, it came in a frozen plastic package that was puree. I put some in the mixer, added, apple juice, cantaloupe pieces and yogurt, and then I blended it into a smoothie. You can also have it as a sorbet. I enjoyed its taste and whatever fruit you decide to add, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it also.

Today I am totally into acai and make smoothies all the time. I experiment adding different pieces of fruit to the puree and am never disappointed with the way it tastes. Though it's quite bitter, I'm sure once people try it several times this acquired taste is one people will enjoy having as part of their day because of its health benefits.