The Power of Acai

We’ve all heard them be mentioned in the health scene often, but not many of us know the real benefits of the acai berry.

The acai berry (pronounced ‘a sigh EE’) comes from South America from the native acai palm trees in their central rainforests. Acai can be consumed by the raw berry, in tablet form but the most common and popular method is powder form. Acai powder can be used in acai bowls, smoothies, and even ice cream. You can mix acai power in any of your favourite snacks or drinks to gain the health benefits of this incredible berry. You can check out the range of organic Acai powders available on our website.

Packed With Nutrients

One of the first benefits of the acai berry is that they are high in vitamins and minerals.

The acai berry is low in sugar, but very high in calcium, fibre and Vitamins A, C and E. When they are compared to blueberries, acai berries have much more protein, calcium, iron and vitamins A and C.

Rich in Antioxidants

One thing we are all searching for in health foods is something that contains antioxidants. The benefits the body receives from antioxidants are important because they have the ability to help cells and neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals (uncharged molecules). The acai berry is extremely high in antioxidants, even more so than blueberries!

Antioxidants in foods are measured by an ‘Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity’. A blueberry has a score of 4,669 while the pulp in acai has an ORAC score if 15,405! That’s a figure that cannot be ignored!

Assists With Your Heart Health

Due to these high levels of anthocyanins antioxidants, acai berries have the ability to assist in cholesterol maintenance and overall heart health. Acai berries can help prevent heart related diseases by lowering cholesterol, lowering insulin levels and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Anti-cancerous Properties

Acai berries have been examined for their anticarcinogenic activity, meaning that they counteract the development of cancer. Anthocyanins act as antioxidants that prevent cancer cells from increasing and induce cancer cell death. In other words, acai berries have the ability to minimize and attack cancerous cells in your body, reducing your risk of cancer.

Helps with Brain Health

Another compound that is found in acai berries is polyphenols. This nutrient has been shown to actively delay the progression of age-related health disorders and have the ability to improve cognitive function. Acai berries potentially can promote memory, learning and overall boost brain function.

The brain has a process of “housekeeping” that cleans up toxic cells and cells that are no longer working. As we get older, this process of autophagy starts to work less and can lead to neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.

With all these incredible benefits from acai berries, it’s a no brainer to buy some from your local organic health food store. Check our website for acai powder which is an easier option to mix in with food and drink!