The fabulous properties of Acai berries have only really come to the West’s attention over the last couple of decades. However, we are a bit behind the Amazon tribes who have known about their benefits for centuries!
The Acai berry can be found growing naturally in the rainforests of South America. One tribe in particular, the Shuar, which is native to the lands around current-day Peru and Ecuador, has long promoted the medicinal properties of Acai for a number of purposes–including fighting infection, immunity, healing and vitality. In fact, it’s estimated that some of these native tribes derive an incredible 40 percent or more of their daily nutrition from Acai berries alone.
Nutritionally, the berry is extremely high in anti-oxidants, including anthocyanins (Greek for “flower” and “blue”) and flavonoids. For this reason, many scientists have labeled it a “superfood”. It is now touted in the media as providing a number of health benefits, including weight loss. Large controlled trials are still pending, but there’s no doubt it’s an extremely healthy food.
You won’t find them in the grocery store alongside other berries. Why? The reason is simple. They are extremely perishable, only grown in equatorial rainforest areas, and won’t last long journeys to export them to other countries. In the United States, Acai will therefore usually be found only as part of nutritional supplements or the freeze-dried version.
It is estimated that 50 grams of powdered freeze-dried Acai contains approximately:
– 250 calories
– 25 grams carbohydrate
– 4 grams protein
– 16 grams fat (monounsaturated)
– An amazing 26 grams of fiber
– Good amounts of Vitamin A and calcium
Bear in mind too that this will obviously be less nutritious than the fresh version that those Amazon tribes can quickly grab from the tree. But before you despair that you can’t just go out and buy a bag full of some fresh Acai berries, there is another fruit that we know is very close to being just as much of a superfood. One that you do have easy access to: Blueberries.