The
Acai Berry (Euterpe oleracea) is a superfruit renowned for centuries in the Amazon rainforest, and often referred to as "Nature's perfect food". Studies show its antioxidants that studies may not only neutralize free radicals but also play additional roles in cellular functions on multiple levels.
[1]
These berries contain a host of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. Together, they can help and support a stronger immune system and improved mental function.
Some believe the
Acai Berry's combination of anthocyanins, antioxidant, polyphenols and other nutrients are beneficial properties that can slow the aging process. Much work has been done on the study of anthocyanins. For example, studies have shown potential against cancers of the esophagus and colon.
[2][3]
When taken on a regular basis, high levels of antioxidants are believed to increase energy, strengthen the immune system and help support against diseases and infection.
An analysis of various powdered
Acai Berry reported it to contain 12 flavonoid-like compounds, including orientin, isovitexin, proanthocyanidins, and low levels of resveratrol.
[4] In a study of rats fed a high cholesterol diet, supplemental feeding with dry Acai pulp reduced blood levels of total and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and superoxide dismutase activity.
[5]
The
Acai Berry contains some of the same protective compounds as red wine, such as anthocyanins, flavonoids and resveratrol.
[4]
Ingredient Research
1. Virgili F, Marino M (November 2008). "Regulation of cellular signals from nutritional molecules: a specific role for
phytochemicals, beyond antioxidant activity". Free Radical Biology & Medicine 45 (9): 1205–16.
2. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry Presents Research from the 2007 International Berry Health Benefits
Symposium, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry ACS Publications, February 2008.
3. Stoner GD. Black raspberries show multiple defenses in thwarting cancer, The Ohio State University Research
News, undated.
4. Schauss AG, Wu X, Prior RL, Ou B, Patel D, Huang D, Kababick JP (2006). "Phytochemical and nutrient composition
of the freeze-dried amazonian palmberry, Euterpe oleraceae Mart. (acai)". J Agric Food Chem 54 (22): 8598–603.
5. Oliveira de Souza M, Silva M, Silva ME, de Paula Oliveira R, Pedrosa ML. (Dec 17 2009). "Diet supplementation with
acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) pulp improves biomarkers of oxidative stress and the serum lipid profile in rats.".
Nutrition.
Additional Resources
1.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acai_berry#Fruit
2.
http://www.oprah.com/health/Acai-Dr-Perricones-No-1-Superfood
