Acai berries are popularly described as the Brazilian superfruit. This is perhaps due to the many health benefits that can be gained from them, including protecting the heart, and helping with weight loss. However, there are a few risks associated with Acai berries that you must consider before incorporating them into your diet.
The Acai berry is commonly cultivated in tropical Central and South America. It has a deep purple color and has a pliable flesh that can easily be blended to make an unsweetened base for a yogurt bowl or smoothie.
However, what makes this fruit most amazing is how it contains numerous nutrients and provides many health benefits. Acai berries are:
Experts even report that Acai has several times more antioxidants than blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and goji berries! Acai berries owe their deep purple hue to their high anthocyanin content. Anthocyanin are antioxidant compounds that can help prevent various diseases.
Acai berries can be regarded as a superfood as they contain low carbs, fat, fiber, protein, carbs, calcium, potassium and vitamin A, which are all important, and should be a part of your daily diet.
Eating Acai berries frequently can help counter the damaging effects of inflammation and oxidation in brain cells, known to have negative impact on memory and learning.
Recent studies published in Food & Nutrition Research, suggests that the anthocyanins contained in Acai promote heart health and can help prevent cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Acai contain low calories and zero sugar, which makes them an easy fit into weight loss plans. However, there is still no research to accredit claims that acai can independently promote rapid weight loss.
Warning: steer clear of processed Acai products if you're on a weight loss plan as they may have been heavily sweetened by sugar.
Acai berries are safe for consumption. However, if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or scheduled for an MRI, it is imperative that you speak to your doctor before eating them.
This also applies when you want to use Acai supplements as they may interact with other medications you may be taking.