subject: Acai - The Super Berry [print this page] Acai is a berry from the rain forests of Brazil. It is packed with unique compounds that make it one of the most nutritious foods in the world. The acai berry is loaded with antioxidants, essential fatty acids and vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the diseases and ailments which acai can help you avoid.
Cancer - Acai berries are loaded with oleic acid which is an essential fat that can force cancer cells to self-destruct.This discoverywas found in a study conducted at the University of Florida. Acaican also help switch off cancer-causing genes as well as stall the growth of any tumors that might sneak past your body's defense .
Heart health - Antioxidants are important to quickly mopping up artery-damaging free radicals. According to Nicholas Perricone, an adjunct professor of medicine at Michigan State University, acai berries contain at least eight times more antioxidants than cherries, grapes, elderberries, kiwi and even broccoli. Acai berries are also one of the few fruits rich in phytosterols which are compounds proven to lower LDL cholesterol.
Brain health - New research shows that acai berries are packed with more brain-boosting anthocyanins than red wine. They are also rich in polyphenolics--compounds that some studies suggest shield brain cells from the early damage that can eventually snowball into full-blown Alzheimer's disease.
Aging - Acai has been found to be very effective in putting the brakes on the entire aging process. Acai berries are loaded with oleic acid and omega-3 fats, both of which work to keep the cell membranes supple, resilient and strong. It's also been shown that even a small daily dose of acai juice can triple blood levels of the antioxidants that destroy the molecules that otherwise damage skin cells and trigger wrinkling.
