All of us have heard of blueberries and raspberries, however what are acai berries? Acai berries stem from the acai palm tree native to the Amazon rainforest in South America. They’re bluish-purple in color and have comparable dimension and form as giant blueberries. They’ve gained reputation as a “superfood” resulting from their potential well being advantages. So, in case you are a health-conscious particular person, you would possibly need to add this superfood to your food regimen. Earlier than you do this, know the well being advantages of acai berries.

Well being Photographs obtained in contact with nutritionist Nirupama Rao to know every part about acai berries.

What are the advantages of acai berries?

“Acai berries are full of important vitamins, together with antioxidants, fiber, wholesome fat, vitamin C and vitamin A, and minerals like potassium and calcium. In addition they are wealthy in wholesome fat and have low sugar content material, together with many minerals and compounds corresponding to anthocyanins,” says the skilled. So, naturally, they’re useful in your well being. Listed here are the well being advantages of acai berries:

1. Accommodates antioxidants

Acai berries are identified for his or her excessive antioxidant content material, which may help to guard cells from oxidative injury brought on by free radicals. If the impact of free radicals just isn’t neutralised by antioxidants, the free radicals can injury cells and provides delivery to ailments in our our bodies. “Antioxidants are linked to varied well being advantages, together with decreasing the chance of power ailments like most cancers, diabetes and coronary heart illness,” says the skilled.

Additionally Learn

2. Good in your pores and skin

The antioxidants in acai berries might promote wholesome pores and skin and cut back indicators of ageing by combating oxidative stress.

3. Promotes coronary heart well being

Acai berries might assist decrease levels of cholesterol and enhance total coronary heart well being resulting from their wholesome fat and antioxidants.

4. Helps handle weight

Acai berry dietary supplements are generally marketed for weight reduction, however there’s restricted scientific proof to help this declare. “Nevertheless, the fiber in acai berries can contribute to a sense of fullness for a very long time,which could aid you shed weight” says the skilled.

Additionally learn: Berries for breakfast: 5 wholesome methods to get pleasure from these dietary powerhouses

5. Improves mind well being

Mind ailments like Alzheimer’s illness and Parkinson’s illness largely happen resulting from ageing and don’t have any treatment. Nevertheless, there are specific meals wealthy in antioxidants and anti inflammatory compounds that will cut back the chance of such ailments. Anthocyanin, which is abundantly present in acai berries, helps to cut back oxidative stress and irritation, thus boosting mind well being. These compounds have additionally been identified to boost reminiscence.

Learn how to use acai berries in food regimen?

Acai berries are nutrient-dense and could be a part of a nutritious diet. They’re generally bought as frozen puree, dried powder or dietary supplements. You may embody them in your food regimen in following methods:

1. Smoothie bowls

A preferred technique to eat acai berries is in smoothie bowls. Mix frozen acai puree with different fruits and use it as toppings.

2. Acai bowls

Create a thick, ice-cream-like bowl by mixing acai puree with a liquid (like almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk) and toppings like bananas and nuts.

3. Acai dietary supplements

Acai dietary supplements, obtainable within the type of capsules or powders, could be taken as suggested by your physician.

What are the unintended effects of acai berries?

Acai berries are usually thought-about protected when consumed as a part of a balanced food regimen. Nevertheless, there are a number of unintended effects try to be conscious of:

1. Allergic reactions

Some people could also be allergic to acai berries, so it’s important to start out with a small quantity if you happen to haven’t consumed them earlier than.

2. Digestive points

Acai dietary supplements can generally trigger delicate digestive discomfort, particularly if taken in giant quantities. Begin with the really helpful dosage to keep away from problems.

Like some other superfood, acai berries additionally must be taken sparsely for good well being.