Acai berry Nutritional and Health Benefis

Description of Acai berry

Acai berries are dark purple fruits that originated in the Brazilian rainforest and grow on palm trees (in bunches) with a grape-like shape and have a red wine flavoured taste. They are also known as palm berries with Euterpe oleracea as their scientific name, while belonging to the family arecaceae. Their fruits are mostly seed with little of pulp, highly perishable and needs freeze drying to protect their nutritional content. Harvesting is strenuous and is done manually by cutting them with knives in bunches. Acai berries are super foods rich in nutrients with a very high ORAC value in freeze dried form of about 102,700 µ mol TE/100g. They are known for their high concentration of antioxidants which is ten times the amount in grapes and two times the amount in blueberries.

Picture of Acai berry

Nutritional benefits of Acai berry

Acai berries have incredible antioxidant properties, anthocyanin’s and plant sterols stored in them. They are also a source of calcium, magnesium, zinc and copper with high vitamin contents like vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and E. They are also a source of amino acids, fibre, minerals and essential fatty acids. They contain ellagic acid also.

Health benefits of Acai berry

The antioxidants in this plant are effective in preventing anti-aging and when oils are used for cosmetics products, give the skin a healthier glow. The antioxidants also lower blood stream cholesterol levels and improve cellular and heart health. The presence of amino acids helps to enhance muscle performance and energy production. Plant sterols help in blood vessel relaxation and enhance blood circulation. The ellagic acid boosts the immune system by suppressing cancer cell multiplication. Because of the dietary fibre content, acai aids in good detoxification of the digestive system for optimal function thereby getting rid of constipation. They maintain a healthy weight by cutting down excess pounds and help fight harmful organisms with extracts gotten from them. It increases blood circulation in the body and contribute to better sex for men. It improves mental function in women between ages 45 to 50 and fights other health problems that might not be mentioned. 

Acai berries are used for making energy drinks, perfume and other cosmetics. It is also beneficial to the overall health of the body. Acai berries are helpful in slowing down the aging process. They taste good and are safer when moderately consumed. There is no doubt about the health benefits of Acai berries. Their nutritional profiles are outstanding.