Kali Pappas, Nutritionist

Acai, pronounced “ah-sigh-ee” is a berry that is native to the rainforests of South America, best-known in Western culture for its weight-loss and anti-aging claims, and of course, as we see it being used all over Instagram in mouthwatering smoothie bowls!

Acai berries are much more than just trendy health claims and a vital ingredient to making Instagram worthy photos -- this powerful berry is a nutrient dense powerhouse! Rich in antioxidants, containing almost 6 times more than blueberries, along with providing many other vital nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber and healthy fats; some call it  “natures purple gold”. Antioxidants are crucial for targeting free radicals in the body to prevent and repair damaged cells. As a result, antioxidants support the immune system, which is correlated with reducing the risk of common diseases like cardiovascular disease and even cancer. With that being said, antioxidant rich foods like acai berries should be used as a staple for overall health and to maintain a balanced diet!

Nutritional Benefits:

• Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and E
• Omegas 3, 6 and 9
• High in antioxidants
• Iron
• Fiber
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Zinc
• Copper
• Contains 19 amino acids
• Low in sugar

What can acai berries do for longevity?

• Protect against degenerative brain diseases
• Reduce risk of heart attack
• Lower cholesterol
• Balance blood sugar
• Slow the effects of aging
• Act as a prebiotic to feed gut bacteria and improve digestion
• Improve athletic performance by reducing risk of exercise induced muscle injury

Preliminary studies suggest eating acai berries can reduce blood sugar and high cholesterol levels in people who are overweight. Another independent study published a review of the effects acai has on immune function, arthritis and metabolic parameters. One lab study used a concentration of acai berry on Leukemia cancer cells and the effect resulted in an increase of cancer cell mortality. Acai was shown to boost immune cell function, even at extremely low levels. It also showed significant pain reduction in a group of arthritis sufferers supplementing with a concentration of acai in just as little as three months. Although more research is needed, we know acai is a great addition to every diet. It is not a “cure all” food, but can certainly be used to help improve overall health and wellbeing! With so many ways to use this superfood, you will have no problem adding it to your diet.

	Supplement: This is the easiest, most effective and efficient way to get it, and guess what? Herbaland is making it even easier for you! Introducing the new: Acai Extract with Vitamin C Gummies -- sourced straight from the Amazon! Quality and effectiveness you can trust, packaged into one delicious gummy that is easy to take and safe for most people with dietary restrictions. Always made vegan, certified gluten-free, low sugar, naturally derived and formulated without fillers or preservatives.
	Eat it for breakfast: Pick up a package of frozen acai and make your own smoothie bowl using nut milk and bananas with fresh fruit, granola and coconut flakes for topping -- yummy!
	Drink it: Grab a bottle of acai juice from your local grocery store and use it as a base for smoothies and other beverages, or try drinking a glass of it daily. Be sure to read your labels and look out for added sugars, or nasty preservatives.
	Use the fruit frozen or powdered: Use the frozen acai to make your own ice cream or as an addition to your favourite smoothie. The powder can be used for a nutrient boost in any beverage or can be sprinkled overtop of breakfast dishes like yogurt or oatmeal.

You can do it all with this tropical berry -- from boosting your immune system and protecting yourself against common diseases to maintaining optimal digestion are just a few of the many reasons why you should consider trying it!