One of the foods of the moment – one of those that calls us the most to ask for prices and information – is undoubtedly Berry acai or acai balls, we are going to talk everything about what they are, where they come from and obviously their properties.
Acai berries are the fruit of a palm tree that lives in humid terrain, especially near rivers. They are native to South America, with the Amazon area being a particularly beneficial place for their cultivation.
Acai berries are expensive, for several reasons, but the main one is how delicate it is to collect them and process them. Palm trees can grow up to thirty meters and produce bunches of berries. From there they are collected to process them quickly. The drawback is that, once they are collected from palm trees, the heat and separation of the plant quickly affects the açai berries, hence they are processed in the shortest time possible.
For those who live near growing areas, the luck is to be able to consume them fresh. For those of us further away it is more difficult to find it fresh, the berries come in powder or dehydrated form. They can be sold alone or in combination with other products, increasing some of their characteristics. An example is the mixture with goji, resulting in a powerful antioxidant.
Properties of Acai and its benefits
Considered a superfood, acai Berry is a jewel of nature that has a positive impact on the human body. Some local Brazilian communities have consumed it for centuries and, now, it reaches the entire world.
The contribution of the Acai Berry fruit
Antioxidants (anthocyanins, polyphenols, vitamins A, C and E).
Acids grades omega-3, 6 and 9.
Electrolytes: phosphorus, magnesium, manganese and potassium.
Vitamins B1, B2 and B3.
Phenols.
Vegetable sterols.
Trace elements.
Nutrients.
Now, more than a study of components, what is the contribution of açai to the body at a practical level? What are the virtues and benefits of this superfood that is spreading so much among athletes and not so athletes? Here they go:
Digestive benefits
We said before that some indigenous communities consume berries. Its primary use is food and its consequent acquisition of energy for activities. But, accompanying this contribution, its intake results in digestion free of problems. This shows. But, for adults, it helps the regeneration of the intestinal flora and the cleansing of the colon. It is a good source of fiber.
It helps the absorption of nutrients from everyday food and the elimination of toxins. And it has been shown to help effectively against increased cholesterol and insulin regulation. Acai powder, or in any of its forms, is also often used as a supplement in weight loss diets, as it offers the feeling of being satiated.
Benefits in the circulatory system
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties and the contributions of phytosterols, fiber and monounsaturated fatty acids, it helps the proper functioning of the heart, helping optimal oxygenation and nutrition of the body.
It also helps cleanse toxins and free radicals, slowing down cellular aging, as we will see below.
Cellular benefits of acai berries
One of the main properties and from which acai berries are most popular is their high antioxidant content.
These slow down the aging process and eliminate free radicals, which contaminate our cells and oxidize them. The contribution of anthocyanins rejuvenates and helps a long cellular life.
Skin benefits
With everything we have seen, let us remember the saying that “beauty begins with the interior“. Indeed, cell regeneration, purification of the digestive system and the positive impact on the circulatory system are the cause of a notable improvement in organic functioning and deep skin renewal.
The increase in popularity of this fruit and modern research have expanded its benefits to skin applications. They have managed to develop an oily compound from acai berries, new products for epidermal and superficial application are prepared. This entails external hydration that completes the internal hydration, achieved thanks to sufficient intake of liquids and berries.
Physical and mental benefits
It maintains hormonal balance and the amount of glucose in the blood, allowing a good rhythm of physical activity, concentration and mental lucidity. The result is noticeable as the berries are frequently introduced into the diet, along with daily exercise and some stress control.
Berries help and enhance the positive things we do, whether physical or mental activities. As a curious note, based on greater blood supply and the contribution of nutrients and purifiers, its intake is also related to the improvement of sexual relations.
Responsible use and contraindications of acai.
The acai Berry fruit is a superfood that is integrated into a healthy, diverse and balanced diet. It must be made clear that it is not the panacea that cures and repairs everything, but rather the perfect help to a healthy lifestyle.
As you may have seen, its benefits are many and very striking, but all this must always be accompanied by a correct and balanced diet, as well as an active and sporting life. In no case should Acai berries be the main food in the diet, but rather a magnificent complement.
