by
Stepy —
February 23, 2019
- Acai berries have been used by people living in Amazonian regions for centuries. This small berry looks similar to a blueberry, and is often described as a cross between a blackberry and dark chocolate in taste.
- Let’s look at the health benefits of acai berries.
- Anti-aging benefits:
- In Brazil, the acai berry is nicknamed the “Beauty Berry” and for good reason. “Its combination of antioxidants, amino acids and omega fatty acids all help slow the aging process by boosting immune and metabolic function and removing destructive free radicals from our bodies,” states Lindsey Duncan, ND, CN on Dr. Oz.
- Anti-cancer benefits:
- This potent berry is packed with antioxidants, which make it a great anti-cancer food. A study from the University of Florida showed that acai berry destroyed cancer cells. “Acai berries are already considered one of the richest fruit sources of antioxidants,” Stephen Talcott, an assistant professor at the University of Flordia said.
- “This study was an important step toward learning what people may gain from using beverages, dietary supplements or other products made with the berries,” Talcott adds.
- Antioxidant rich:
- Acai berries are excellent sources of antioxidants. These antioxidants protect the cells from the effects of oxidative stress. Dr. Andrew Weil defines oxidative stress as, “the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
- Good source of protein:
- Acai is a good source of protein for a berry. Every 100 g of acai berries contains 1 g of protein, which is 2% of the recommended daily value. Protein is found in almost every part of the body, so it is important to get enough every day.
- Heart health:
- Acai berries are high in compounds called anthocyanins, which have shown the ability to reduce blood cholesterol levels.
- Immune boosters:
- As we have seen, acai berries are a great source of antioxidants and nutrients. These antioxidants have shown immune boosting properties. A study published in a journal called Plos One showed that compounds called polysaccharides found in acai berries have the ability to induce immune response.
- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
- For the health benefits of blueberries.
- For the health benefits of strawberries.
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- REFERENCES:
- 1. Duncan, Lindsey, ND, CN. “So, What’s So Good About Acai? A Whole Lot.” The Dr. Oz Show. The Dr. Oz Show, 24 May 2011. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 2. “Brazilian Berry Destroys Cancer Cells in Lab, UF Study Shows.” University of Florida News. University of Florida, 12 Jan. 2006. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 3. “The Health Benefits of Acai Berry.” NaturalNews. NaturalNews, 12 Nov. 2013. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 4. “Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Pure Acai Berry Unsweetened.” Self Nutrition Data. Self Nutrition Data, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 5. “Polysaccharides Isolated from Açaí Fruit Induce Innate Immune Responses.” PLOS ONE. PLOS ONE, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
