The acai berry, a fruit grown in the Brazilian rain forest, has been widely marketed as an incredible health food in the U.S. Acai is not only delicious, but contains many antioxidants that help fight cancer and other diseases.

Nutrition

In addition to a high antioxidant count (twice that of blueberries ), acai berries are rich in omega fats, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, and E, fiber, and contain 19 different amino acids. They are also naturally low in sugar.

Health

Acai berries are being studied for their potential to fight cancer. A University of Florida study reports that when six acai extracts were prepared, four "were shown to kill significant numbers of leukemia cells when applied for 24 hours."

Taste

Acai berries are often described as tasting like a mixture of blueberries, wine, and dark chocolate.

Recipes

While fresh acai berries cannot be found in the U.S., the juice and frozen pulp are available at many markets. The juice is delicious alone or mixed with vegetable juice for an extra energy boost. Add the pulp to smoothies to give the drink a richer, darker flavor. In Brazil, the traditional way to eat acai pulp is in a bowl topped with sliced bananas and granola.

Expert Insight

According to AgriLife News, a trial study showed "significant increases in antioxidant activity in the blood" 24 hours after participants consumed acai pulp.

Source:

University of Florida study: Berries

AgriLife News: Acai

More Information:

PowerSupplements.com: Acai