The acai berry is a fruit that has been widely marketed as a "super-food" because it has been found to contain many health benefits. The acai berry is rich in antioxidants, amino acids for protein production, vital minerals and vitamins, and monounsaturated "good" fats. Various types of formulations are available on the market--for example, liquid, powder and freeze-dried, including gel capsules or compressed powder tablets. Acai berry capsules usually have additional ingredients to boost energy levels or to increase the body's metabolism (popular in the weight-loss formulation of acai berry capsules).
Antioxidant Properties
Antioxidants are important for maintaining optimum health and preventing illnesses and disease. Their mechanism of action is to neutralize the free radicals in the cells that can potentially cause damage in the body. Acai berry capsules are rich in antioxidants and supplements, which can help protect the body against cell damage and decrease the chances of getting diseases, such as cancer. A study published in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" in November 2006 by researcher A.G. Schauss concluded that acai berries have high antioxidant activities.
Vitamins and Minerals
Most acai berry products available on the market contain important vitamins and minerals to provide significant energy boost for the body. Acai berry capsules contain multivitamins and electrolytes, such as magnesium, potassium and calcium. Some acai berry capsules have minerals and supplements added to the proprietary formulation--copper and zinc, for example. Drugs.com recommends taking 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg per day of acai berry capsules with food. To avoid side effects of overdose or toxicity from acai berries, do not ingest large quantities of multivitamins from acai products.
Anti-Inflammatory
The acai berry has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the "Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry" in September 2008 by researcher G.S. Jensen concluded the presence of anti-inflammatory properties in this fruit. Acai berry capsules can also help decrease pain in damaged nerve fibers.
References
- "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry;" Antioxidant Capacity and Other Bioactivities of the Freeze-Dried Amazonian Palm Berry; A.G. Schauss; November 2006
- Drugs.com: Acai
- "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry;" In Vitro and in Vivo Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Capacities of an Antioxidant-Rich Fruit and Berry Juice Blend; G.S. Jensen; September 2008
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