Health & happiness mantra: Acai fruit
Acai fruit : The Acai fruit is one of the most sought-after berries found in abundance in the Amazon rainforests of Brazil. The inch-long reddish-purple berries are emerging as a great health supplement even though it has been an intrinsic part of Amazonian diet since ancient times.
Acai is known to be world’s one of the highest Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity foods (ORAC) – a measurement of how well antioxidants can neutralise free radicals.
The consumption of this super-fruit saw a significant increase in the 80s – especially as it was used in the production of drinks, sweets and ice-creams and now it is being used extensively in cosmetic products. It may be noted that these berries perish within 24 hours. So, those living in countries where the berries are not found can now be at ease and look out for cosmetics with acai berries. The acai berries are preferred in beauty products because its antioxidant levels remain high even when its oil is processed and stored for weeks and months.
The pulp of this oxidant-rich fruit is known to score even higher than cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries and addresses various health conditions. Its deep purple pigment is aids antioxidant benefits. The super food is high in anthocyanins, which acts as an antioxidant. Foods that have anthocyanins are strong red, blue, or purple colours.
Loaded health benefits
Research reveals that drinking acai juice or application of its pulp or cream is a boon for those suffering from conditions associated with chronic inflammation. But its benefits are galore and the same are mentioned below.
· Aids weight loss: The fruit’s fibre content cleanses the colon which aids weight loss. Most people suffer from sluggish stomach
· Good for heart: Anthocyanins prevent oxidation of cholesterol. When cholesterol gets oxidised, it clings to the arteries and narrows them down
· Brain booster: The fruit dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow
· Helps clear digestive ailments: Fibre in the berry skin and pulp helps prevent or relieve a congested stomach
· Contains premature aging: High antioxidants levels slow or reverse typical processes of aging. Each berry holds ten times the amount of antioxidants as grapes, and two times the blueberries
· Deals with allergies and rashes: Acai oil is a natural alternative to chemical based skin-care products. Consumption of berries not only relieves you of allergies and rashes, but also gives you a healthier glow
· Strengthens immune system: Amino acids in the fruit promotes muscle performance, endurance and strength. It as well
· Boosts energy levels: The berries are packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals as well which copes with unexplained fatigue or exhaustion.
Caution
· Lately, acai has been advocated as an effective weight loss substance. However, this in totality could be misleading. Acai benefits the overall wellbeing of a body. The fact remains that antioxidants definitely help neutralise by-products of fat burning.
· Acai is basically safe and can be consumed. However, it would be highly desirable for you to inform your doctor about it as well. This is especially important for people suffering from high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney ailments or just in case you are about to undergo MRI.
