 Superfood No. 1: Açaí Nature’s Energy FruitIt may seem odd to start this list of superfoods with one you’ve likely never even heard of. But studies have shown that this little berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world! Açaí (ah-sigh-ee) is the high-energy berry of a special Amazon palm tree. Harvested in the rainforests of Brazil, açaí tastes like a vibrant blend of berries and chocolate. Hidden within its royal purple pigment is the magic that makes it nature’s perfect energy fruit. Açaí is packed full of antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids. Although açaí may not be available in your local supermarket, you can find it in several health food and gourmet stores (often in juice form). A new product featuring the unsweetened pulp is now also available, and I highly recommend that you choose this form of açaí.Açaí pulp contains:
A remarkable concentration of antioxidants that help combat premature aging, with 10 times more antioxidants than red grapes and 10 to 30 times the anthocyanins of red wine.
A synergy of monounsaturated (healthy) fats, dietary fiber and phytosterols to help promote cardiovascular and digestive health.
An almost perfect essential amino acid complex in conjunction with valuable trace minerals, vital to proper muscle contraction and regeneration.
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AÇAI (Pronounced AH-SAH-EE) – Its energizing value comes from the amount of fat that consists of unsaturated fatty acids. These acids have a substance that is highly active and acts in the blood circulation thus eliminating the saturated fatty acids (which cause vein or artery obstruction).
The AÇAI (Pronounced AH-SAH-EE) is rich in fibers that help the digestive system. AÇAI is the seed of a palm called “euterpe olerácea’, which is a native plant of the Amazon region. From this plant the heart of the palm is also extracted.
For centuries, the indigenous people of Brazil’s Northern Amazon region have harvested this exotic berry as an antidote for numerous ailments. Now, modern science has validated the wellness benefits contained within the acai fruit. For instance, by itself, the acai berry provides a remarkable source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Particularly valuable are the dozens of polyphenols contained within this fruit.
