The miracle of acai Berry

The acai berry has been widely hyped ― and debunked ― as a miracle weight-loss supplement. However, experts say that behind the marketing madness this tropical fruit has true, research-proven health benefits.

In fact, respected scientists have determined that its exceptional nutritional qualities can improve overall health in many ways, the Newsmax Health reported.

“So rich in nutrients is the acai fruit that it is possible someone could survive on it alone for quite a period of time, without showing signs of malnutrition,” says Alexander Schauss, a researcher who has studied acai for nearly 20 years and summarized his findings in a book, Acai: An Extraordinary Antioxidant-Rich Palm Fruit from the Amazon.

The berry, he says, contains all essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids (for protein), as well as healthy fats and fiber. Neither he nor anyone else is suggesting we live on acai alone, but the fruit offers a very efficient way to get concentrated nutrients that prevent disease and premature aging, and enhance well being.

As an example, says Schauss, “People with autoimmune diseases can get some benefits, and many people who have fibromyalgia say ‘I feel like a completely new person.’” People with multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, and Crohn’s disease may also benefit.

Test-tube and animal studies show that the berry’s combination of strong antioxidants is anti-inflammatory and may protect cells from mutating and becoming cancerous, defend the brain against plaques, and guard against atherosclerosis. And small human studies found that it can reduce joint and back pain, and lower unhealthy levels of cholesterol and blood sugar, thereby reducing risk for heart disease and diabetes and indirectly helping to control weight.

Since antioxidants stop inflammation, the berry has tremendous potential to fight disease and slow down aging.

Acai is a dark purple berry that grows 30 to 50 feet above ground on very slim palm trees in the Amazon rainforests of Brazil. On the outside, it looks like a purple grape but inside, up to 90 percent of the fruit is a large seed, surrounded by a thin layer of pulp and skin. In the Amazon, where it is considered a staple, local residents often drink a quart or more of acai juice daily.

It is widely available in health food stores or on the internet in many different forms, including powders, juices, frozen packets, and capsules.

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