The acai fruit that comes from the rain forests in Brazil is now known to be the most powerful of all natural antioxidants; packing 10 times more antioxidants than grapes and twice that of mulberries. Besides the antioxidants, the Acai has a lot more health friendly compounds such as iron, protein, fiber, fatty acids with omegas, vitamin E and many trace minerals.
The Functions of Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect and help repair cells damaged by free radicals, which are unstable molecules. Damaged cells form the basis for the onset of cancer and the rapid degeneration of the body cells accelerating the process of aging. Antioxidants stabilize free radicals to prevent them from attacking healthy cells. The above properties are endorsed by the National Cancer Institute, which confirms that they have evidence that the antioxidants are capable of slowing down or preventing the expansion of cancer. This is why acai berry fruit clearance is of a vital importance.
Exposure to radiation and tobacco smoke are two environmental factors contributing to the formation of free radicals. They are also formed as a byproduct of cell metabolism. Another cause of cancer is said to be DNA damaged by free radicals.
Acai – a Primary Source for Anthocyanin
Acai is among the leading sources for a special class of antioxidant called anthocyanin, which in turn is a phytochemical having beneficial effects on the cardio vascular system. This antioxidant is also responsible for the prevention of blood clots and artheroscierosis, improved circulation and fighting cancer. Anthocyanin is also prominently present in Red wine; also considered beneficial for the cardio vascular system.
However, an ORAC study analysis has shown that the cyaniding-3 glucoside, the main anthocyanin in Acai berry is 3.5 fold more powerful than the corresponding anthocyanin in Red wine. ORAC, in short for Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity, is a technique for measuring levels of antioxidant activities in substances. 1670 ORAC is needed daily by an average person whereas a level of 3871 ORAC is produced by the Acai fruit. Keep all this in mind when you go for that acai sale. Oleic Acid considered beneficial for a healthy heart in addition to its propensity for protection against oncogene, which causes cancer, is also found in Acai. Oncogene has been detected in a large percentage of patients with breast cancer.
Acai, now causing a big stir with regard to our health needs is still relatively new. Apart from carrying a very high level of antioxidants it has many health benefits to offer for many diseases and ailments. Some of the other health benefits of the acai fruit include: improved digestion, an enhanced immune system, better mental focus and better visual abilities, increased energy levels, stamina and increased sexual prowess (it is dubbed by some people as the Amazon’s Viagra!)