Acai Berry Nutrition Facts

Acai berry (pronounced "ah-sigh-ee") is a small grape-sized berry that grows in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil. Once known only to natives of the Amazon rainforest, the acai berry is now being sought after for its exceptional antioxidant power and health qualities. The fruit gained popularity in 2005, when Dr. Perricone touted the berry as the "Number one super food in the world" in his book The Perricone Promise and in appearances on TV shows such as Oprah.

Acai's antioxidant concentration surpasses even blueberries. Antioxidants are substances or nutrients in our foods, which can prevent or slow the oxidative damage to our body. When our body cells use oxygen, they naturally produce free radicals (by-products), which can cause damage. Antioxidants act as "free radical scavengers" and hence prevent and repair damage done by these free radicals. Acai is especially rich in anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that help to build the immune system, fight infections, protect the heart, and may help control prostate enlargement. Acai has 33% more anthocyanin than red wine

Acai is also an excellent source of protein and cholesterol-lowering omega 3, 6 and 9. A 100-gram serving of acai contains only 90 calories, two grams of fat and no cholesterol. Plus, it delivers 3.5 grams of dietary fiber, something we could all use more of in our diets.