What is the Acai Berry?

The Acai berry comes from the Acai Palm tree, native to Central and South America. The fruit that grows on these palms is a small, round, blackish-purple berry about 1 inch in diameter. It looks similar to a grape, but has less pulp and is slightly smaller and darker. There is one large seed in the center of each berry, making up about 80% of the fruit.

The fact that the seed is so large means there needs to be a large harvest in order to produce a lot of usable pulp. Thankfully, each tree can produce a harvest of 700-900 berries two times per year. Instead of just throwing the seeds away, they are actually put to good use. When ground up they make a great feed for livestock. The locals also make many types of jewelry with the seeds.

Those who are lucky enough to live near the acai palms have been using this special fruit for years as a great source of omega fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants. The local athletes also use the berry to get the energy they need to get up for training and competitions. Being one of the most nutritious fruits on earth, it is also a great source of protein, iron, and fiber.

Because of the high amount of antioxidants in the Acai fruit, eating it possible could be used for the prevention of cancer. There are also traces of almost every known beneficial mineral found in the pure Acai berry. There are also very high levels of glucosamine and anthocyanins. Anthocyanins can help repair collagen, protect the nervous system, protect blood vessels, and improve eyesight.

The omega fatty acid and fiber content of the acai berry make it an incredibly heart friendly fruit. It can aid in lowering cholesterol levels, as well as improving the digestive system.

The essential fatty acids found in the Acai berry are omega-9 and omega-6. These acids help absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K. This can help prevent hypertension.

We are just now finding out about this remarkable berry, but the Brazilians have been in on the secret for decades. Because it is only grown in the Amazon, it can be hard to get the purest form of the Acai here in the states.

Research is just beginning on all the benefits of the Acai berry, but enough has already been done for us to know that this is a very powerful health food.

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