The Power of the Acai Berry
The acai berry contains many potent compounds that are well known to have a powerful influence on the health of the human body. The acai berry has been used for hundreds of years in the rain forests of South America, with tribal medicine men well aware of their benefits. The berry has only recently made its debut in the Western world, becoming very popular in the past few years. The berry, in fact, has become a chief export of Brazil, rivaling that of even the booming lumber industry. So what is it about the acai berry that makes it so powerful?
To begin with, the acai berry has 10 to 30 times the concentration of anthocyanins that are found in red wine. Anthocyanins are widely believed to be the root of the health benefits seen in red wine. As with red wine, the acai berry is believed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular ailments, cancer, and other illnesses related to aging. Anthocyanins are known to reduce the damage done by free radicals and other harmful enzymes by neutralizing them before they can affect the body. Anthocyanins are also known to repair proteins that have already been damaged by certain harmful enzymes.
Other proposed benefits of the acai berry include improved vision and resistance to neurological disorders. As well as increased anthocyanin levels, the acai berry also boasts an extremely high level of fiber. A good level of fiber intake is critical in maintaining healthy intestinal function and in avoiding ailments such as colon cancer. Consuming acai berries is a quick way to reach the daily recommended dose of fiber.
In addition to its anthrocyanin and fiber values, the berry possesses a high level of calcium. Calcium not only contributes to improved skeletal strength, but also to reduced risk of cardiovascular ailments. Studies have also found calcium to be responsible for reduced risk of stroke. With the acai berry possessing such a high level of calcium, it can be considered an excellent way to control risk associated with stroke, as well as heart disease.
The berry is also popular because of its high content of omega 3 fatty acids and the vitamin B. With incredible anti-bacterial properties as well, the acai berry is sometimes used as a facial cream. With so many amazing properties, the berry has become a popular choice among health food enthusiasts. With further research, there is no telling what other benefits may be revealed about the exciting acai berry. Because of its short fresh life, acai berries are rarely seen whole outside of South America. They can usually be found included in health drinks and other supplements, such as in pills.