The acai berry is only grown in the rainforests of Brazil and it has only been in recent times that is has been on hand for universal consumption. It has only been in the past five years or so that superior processing methods have allowed this healthful berry to be accessible to the rest of the earth.
This small berry is laden with a mixture of nourishing nutrients and it is understood to be advantageous for many ailments including obesity, heart disease and the avoidance of cancer. There are few scientific studies that prove the value of the actual berry, however there are many studies on the nutrients contained within the berry.
The acai is a deep purple color. This pigment is really a vital antioxidant called anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are also plentiful in red wine and blueberries. Studies on laboratory mice showed a noteworthy advantage for weight loss when the mice were given purified anthocyanins. The antioxidant is also understood to have a considerable influence on heart health and the health of the entire cardiovascular system. The acai berry actually contains 10 to 30 times more anthocyanins than red wine.
Anthocyanins are very constructive for cardiovascular health. Studies show that it improves blood circulation, prevents blood clots, relaxes blood vessels and prevents atherosclerosis. Further studies have concluded that anthocyanins also have antiviral and antiallergenic properties and it may be possible that they can contribute to cancer prevention by blocking carcinogens on a molecular level and stimulating tumor cell death.
Acai berries also contain a array of healthy fats that is similar in constitution to the fats found in olive oil. They contain oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid and linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid. Both of these fatty acids contribute to cardio health by lowering LDL cholesterol, or the “lousy” kind and maintaining healthy levels of HDL cholesterol levels, or the “healthy” kind. These healthy fats also add to the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, which are essential to good health.
The fatty acids found in the acai berry penetrate the cell membranes and make them more supple. This allows for hormones, neurotransmitters and insulin receptors to function more ably, which in turn greatly reduces inflammation, which is a leading cause of the troubles naturally associated with aging, including wrinkles, gray hair and dementia.
The anti-aging aptitude of the acai berry is conceivably the most critical benefit of this wonderful fruit. The combination of necessary nutrients such as antioxidants, essential fatty acids and amino acids are all of use in slowing the aging progression.
The acai berry is a truly advantageous food finding. It has one of the highest antioxidant capacities of any food, the content of healthy fats is outstanding and the fiber and protein add to its surprising dietary value. The acai berry is really a incredible dietary find.
