Acai berries are all the rage. You can find them in supplements, extract, juices and powders. This "superfood" might help prevent cardiovascular disease, premature aging, type 2 diabetes and cancer. It may even help you lose a few pounds. Are acai berries really this amazing? Why are they so prevalent in the natural health industry and blueberries seem to be antiquated?
Both acai berries and blueberries contain phytochemicals from the anthocyanin group. Phytochemicals are the components of plants meant to help the plant combat disease and cellular damage. They also help repair damage. In other words, they keep the plant healthy and when you consume these plants, that protective factor transfers to your body.
Have you ever wondered why blueberries are blue and broccoli is green? Maybe not, but the interesting thing is these phytochemicals not only benefit the plant, but they also give the plant their characteristics. Blueberries and acai berries obtain their gorgeous coloring from anthocyanins.
These anthocyanins contribute to better health because they have characteristics that counteract some of the major causes of disease, aging and weight gain. Their antioxidant abilities are astounding. Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Our lifestyles and diets contribute a huge amount of free radicals to our bodies and can lead to cancer, heart disease and aging. So, fighting them is essential to good health.
Anthocyanins also have anti-inflammatory properties. Scientists are now giving more credence to inflammation's role in the disease process, aging and weight gain. Our diets, high in animal protein and refined carbohydrates and low in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, contribute largely to systemic inflammation.
So, what do we make of this information. Both acai berries and blueberries contain anthocyanins, so why are blueberries so underrated compared to acai berries?
Though blueberries are very good for you, acai berries have extremely high Oxygen Radical Absorption Capabilities (ORAC). This score measures how much they fight free radical damage. Blueberries score 2400 and acai berries score 5500. As well, acai berries contain a variety of essential amino acids that is nearly perfect.
However, you will not find acai berries in the produce department like blueberries. They only grow in the Amazon and we have yet to figure out how to supply these gorgeous berries for regular consumption. You will have to suffice for supplements, extracts or powders. The juices may contain sugar or corn syrup and low amounts of actual acai berry.
Ultimately, it is best to take in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to benefit from a variety of beneficial phytochemicals. They work synergistically in the body to promote overall good health. An acai berry supplement may also be a great idea to add to a healthy diet, especially during the winter months when fresh produce is not as plentiful.
Do you want to know which acai berry brand you can trust? Go there now and discover our preferred acai berry brand.