Acai Berries
Acai berries are dark purple and about the size of a large grape. The pulp has a similar consistency to that of a soft pear. Each year, two crops of fruits are produced and the number of fruit bourn may vary on each tree but usually range anywhere from 600-1000. The berry, which was initially more famous for the large amounts of juice contained within the pulp, has been consumed by South Americans for centuries. It was later discovered that the flesh of the fruit was just as delicious. Vitamins, Minerals and Phytochemical Components Acai fruits have been found to have numerous chemicals, some of which may have medicinal value. The polyphenols contained within the fruit have been found to have strong antioxidant properties (5). The levels of anthocyanin, flavonols, and proanthocyanidins have also been found in large amounts in these berries and current research indicates that these chemicals may protect against the potent oxidants like peroxy and hydroxy radicals (3). The latest research indicates that these antioxidants can penetrate human cells, help protect the body from harmful bacteria and help ward off upper respiratory tract infections.Other work indicates that the seeds of the fruit also are potent antioxidants and may help prolong the shelf life of foods (5). Medicinal Uses Based on Scientific Studies Coming Soon
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