Acai (pronounced Ah-sigh-EE) is an absolute superfood and packs so many benefits. It is a berry that grows on palm trees in the Amazon rainforest. Collectively, they look a little like grapes and blueberries and have a large seed within. To ensure Acai berries are safe to eat, they first need to be soaked in water to soften the tough outer skin, and they’re then typically mashed into a delicious purple paste. Now you know what Acai is, let’s take a look at some of the undisputed benefits of this brilliant berry.

The benefits of Acai

The first benefit of Acai is its taste. When you sample it for the first time, you might think it tastes like a combination between blackberries and unsweetened chocolate. It has a slightly earthy taste but is still super sweet, just like other berries. Acai berries have been enjoyed by South American people for generations, with those living in and around the Amazon benefiting from their health benefits before the rest of the world caught on! But as well as being delicious, Acai is renowned for the following health benefits, which have fulled the global rise in popularity of this super berry:

Packed with nutrients

First and foremost, Acai berries are packed to the rafters with nutrients. Although they’re relatively low in natural sugars (around 70 calories per 100g), they contain healthy fats that are beneficial to your health. Acai berries are also an excellent source of essential vitamins, including C and D, that are vital for your functioning. They are also a source of chromium, zinc, iron, copper, manganese, magnesium, and potassium, hence why they’re regarded as a superfood!

Antioxidants

Free radicals can lead to oxidative stress, which can then cause a number of illnesses and diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Acai berries are rich in antioxidants, which neutralise the damage caused by free radicals. You will actually find more antioxidants in Acai than in blueberries and other types of berries, highlighting just how good they can be for your health.

Heart health

The purple colour of Acai berries comes from the anthocyanin within the fruit. Scientists believe that it is responsible for the positive impact that Acai has on cholesterol. The berries also contain plant sterols, which prohibit your body from absorbing cholesterol. Another bonus is that Acai berries are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to lower your risk of heart disease.

Fibre

Last but not least, Acai berries are high in fibre, which is integral to your digestive health. Fibre keeps you fuller for longer and helps to balance your blood sugar levels.

How to enjoy Acai berries

Due to their rich purple colour, delicious taste, and a huge array of health benefits, Acai berries are a super popular addition to smoothies. When combined with bananas, berries, and a range of other fruits, Acai berries can enhance your wellbeing and ensure you take in all of the required nutrients for you to thrive.

Pick your own bundle with LoveStruck and get started on your health kick today. Adding Acai, blueberries, and other delightful fruits to your diet can have a huge benefit on your mental and physical health and is well worth considering if you’re looking to improve the way you feel on a daily basis.