Where and what!?
The Acai tree is part of the Palm tree family and is found in the Amazon Rainforest. It's another superfood like blueberries and Goji berries.
Benefits?
One thing that makes Acai berries so fantastic is their level of anti-oxidants (anthocyanins, specifically). Anti-oxidants prevent oxidisation which damages cells and leaves them more vulnerable to disease. Anthocyanins in particular are great for lowering the risk of heart disease since the cholesterol can't oxidise and then stick to your arteries.
Anti-oxidants are also known to possess anti-ageing benefits. Free radicals (a molecule with an odd, unpaired electron) are responsible for damaging our skin and causing muscular and joint pains. Anti-oxidants neutralise free radicals by donating one of their own electrons to them. Consuming plenty of anti-oxidants helps the body repair damaged skin cells faster and, therefore, a more youthful appearance is maintained.
The Acai berry helps improve metabolic functions which helps the body work better absorbing nutrients, breaking down foods, eliminating waste and regulating the release of insulin. The result of this is that weight loss can be achieved since blood sugar levels are much better regulated and the whole digestion process is happening more effectively.
Fun fact?
Acai berry is a very common diet component for the Caboclo populations (Brazil). They use it for up to 40% of their calorie intake!
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