The acai berry is a fruit that grows in bunches similar to grapes and is harvested from palm trees in the Amazon rainforest. Although the Mayo Clinic says that research into the health benefits of the fruit is limited, they note that acai berries are rich in antioxidants, fiber and good fats. But those who tout the benefits of the fruit say that taking acai supplements can promote weight loss, lower bad cholesterol and strengthen the heart.
Keeps You Young
The website Official Acai Berry Review, cites a comment by Dr. Nicholas Perricone, a dermatologist, who called the acai berry a "super food," that is, a food that may provide significant health benefits. Acai berry has 10 times more antioxidants than grapes and 30 times more than wine. This means the fruit can help fight premature aging in the body. A 2006 study by the University of Florida published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry illustrates that a compound found in the acai plant, pterostilbene, can help reverse the negative effects of aging on brain function in rats.
Lowers Cholesterol
The fatty acids found in the acai berry are very similar to those found in olive oil and are believed to help lower bad cholesterol in the body while reducing the chance of developing heart disease, according to Natural Benefits of Acai Berries.
Weight Loss
Scientists believe the juice from the acai berry can help improve the ability to lose weight. A February 2009 study conducted on animals by Arkansas scientist Ronald Prior and published in the journal Molecular Nutrition and Food Research notes that acai contains pigments called anthocyanins that help prevent the build-up of fats in the bodies of mice. Anthocyanins are found in the skins of the acai berry, according to Official Acai Berry Review.
Fights Cancer
Scientists note that while more studies are needed, the acai berry seems to contain sufficient antioxidants to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the body. The 2006 University of Florida study noted that the antioxidants of the berry can help fight free radicals in the body that can lead to the formation of cancer cells. In the study, approximately 86 percent of cancer cells were destroyed when acai berry was taken.
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