What Everyone Should Know About Acai
Much has been published about the health benefits of acai (pronounced ah-sigh-EE) berries. The fruits of the Euterpe oleracea palm tree, acai berries gained much popularity after they were featured on Oprah. Unfortunately, some tried to take advantage of the hype, which had a negative impact. Regardless, acai has been proven to be beneficial in a number of ways.
Antioxidant Qualities of Acai
Acai berries are best known for their antioxidant properties; they contain anthocyanins and flavonoids; anthocyanins give the berries their dark purple color, and are also found in blueberries and red grapes. Both of these components are known antioxidants, which work by binding to free radicals so that the body can eliminate them from the system. Because free radicals are known to do damage to healthy cells, antioxidants are an important component to a healthy diet.
Not All Antioxidants are Created Equal
The value of antioxidants is based on their ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) value, which is scientifically measured through laboratory tests. Acai's ORAC value is very high, indicating that it is especially effective at trapping free radicals. Antioxidants are believed to be effective in the fight against cancers and heart disease. They are also credited with slowing down the aging process. Acai berries have higher antioxidant levels than cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries.
Acai's Health Benefits
As a dietary supplement, acai has a multitude of health benefits. Beyond its antioxidant properties, it is known to be effective in weight loss. Belly fat, a common problem area for many, is believed to be at least partially linked to build-up in the digestive tract; acai supplements naturally detoxify the body, which helps to eliminate this fat.
(Back to Articles)
viewed: 10462
article written for Traffic Booster Sites
|
|
|
|
