Euterpe oleraceae, or acai, berries come from the rain forests of Brazil, where natives have eaten the nutritious fruit since time immemorial. Acai berries contain potent antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have many healthful benefits. Acai is one of the highest antioxidant fruits on Earth, providing many healthful benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, disease-fighting, anti-aging and weight management effects.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect
According to the Life Extension Foundation, acai has a potent anti-inflammatory effect. Cyclo-oxygenase, known as COX-1 and 2, increases inflammation in the body. The anthocyanins in acai have been shown to enter human cells and decrease inflammation while promoting immune function, even at low doses. Decreased inflammation means less pain in joints and other tissues prone to swelling. The anthocyanins in acai may even prevent or decrease the symptoms of arthritis.
Antioxidant Effect
Acai has been shown to have very high antioxidant activity in vitro. In particular, freeze-dried acai is exceptional at scavenging peroxyl and superoxide free radicals, according to the Life Extension Foundation. Acai is one of the best antioxidant sources out of all the foods tested, including many fruits and vegetables. Free radicals are formed from toxins and sun exposure, and they also develop as a result of everyday metabolism. By neutralizing these free radicals, acai helps to protect our DNA and cell membranes. The USDA recommends 3000 to 5000 ORAC units per day. Quality acai contains roughly 3000 ORAC per serving.
Disease-Fighting Effects
Acai has disease-fighting effects against diabetes, heart disease, cancer, arthritis and neuro-degenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. The anthocyanin antioxidants in acai prevent damage to blood vessels, while the fiber, omega-9 and beta sitosterol can help to decrease cholesterol and blood pressure. As for cancer, acai antioxidants can induce apoptosis or cell death in tumor cells. The anthocyanins may also prevent cancer in the first place by protecting cells from damage. Diabetes occurs because of irregular blood glucose and insulin levels. Acai's fiber, omega fats and antioxidants help to normalize blood sugar. In addition, anthocyanin antioxidants have been shown to protect brain cells from oxidation, which can contribute to Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.
Anti-Aging Effect
Besides fighting diseases, acai may also help fight the ultimate disease of the human body: death. Acai's antioxidants have been shown to have anti-aging effects. The Free Radical Theory of Aging states that oxidative damage from sun exposure, pollutants, chemicals and even exercise and metabolism cause the build up of free radicals, which contribute to aging. However, if you take in large amounts of antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals as you go, then far fewer adverse effects of aging will be experienced. Acai is a natural inclusion in any anti-aging protocol due to the high amounts of anthocyanin antioxidants, which have shown incredible age-fighting properties.
Weight-Management Effects
Acai has become well known for its weight-management effects. Users claim that it helps to suppress appetite, reduce hunger, increase metabolism and improve energy and stamina. Weight-loss requires taking in fewer calories than we burn. The two obvious ways of doing this are to eat less or work out more. The best solution is to do both. The fiber in acai helps by suppressing appetite and stabilizing blood sugar, which means we eat fewer calories and store less body fat. Acai's antioxidants and amino acids help with a boost of energy to increase activity and burn more fat. In addition, the detoxification effects of acai help to unclog the digestive system for healthy elimination.
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