The Important Benefits of Acai Berry

If you are interested in nutrition and nutritional supplements, then you have probably heard of the (ah-sigh-EE) acai berry. This is being touted as one of the new ‘super foods’ to hit the market because it has excellent nutritional value and seems to contribute to overall good health. It helps to improve the cardiovascular system, improve cholesterol levels and assist with weight loss.

Acai berry has been growing in the Amazon area of South America for centuries, where it is known for its healing benefits. Many people may wonder why it took so long to spread to the rest of the world if it is actually such a great thing. Part of the reason for this is that once it is harvested, it quickly loses many of its benefits, so exporting the berries quickly enough for them to be beneficial was a challenge. However, with modern technology and improved techniques for harvesting, including flash freezing, the bulk of the vitamins and nutrients are able to be preserved in supplement and even the juice. There are now many forms of this super food available, including tablets, extracts, and powders.

Initial studies of the benefits of the acai berry have shown a positive impact on the cardiovascular system, because it is so densely packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. The cardiovascular system is greatly impacted by the anti-oxidants it contains, which help to lower cholesterol. In fact, these berries contain 10 to 30 times the amount of anti-oxidants that are contained in grapes. These little berries provide the anti-oxidants necessary to counteract the damage that is caused by free radicals which destroy cells and work to decrease blood flow. By reversing these effects, the anti-oxidants promote better cardiovascular health.

We have all heard about the problems that eating too much fat can cause, but there are some essential fatty acids that our bodies need that we often don’t get. These Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids assist in lowering bad cholesterol levels and raising the good cholesterol levels. This helps with heart health. The Acai Berry is also high in dietary fiber, which is one of the nutrients that is most lacking in the American diet. As fiber passes through the body, it is not digested, but is capable of picking up excess food and toxins on its way out, which also helps to lower the bad cholesterol.

This high fiber content is also touted as a big boost to people who are trying to lose weight. By having enough fiber to allow the digestive system to work properly, you will be burning more calories and your metabolism can be normalized. The fiber actually helps to remove excess food before it can become fat, which will contribute to weight loss.

By using natural supplements to improve your intake of the proper amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, you will be able to improve your overall good health. By including supplements such as Acai Berry in a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and attention to diet, you will be able to improve your health.