Acai… An Energizing Super Fruit!

by Cheryl Roth and Mara Engel, Modern Organic Divas

Exotic, exhilarating atmosphere. Warm, sandy beaches. The rainforest of the Amazon. And, what some may consider one of its most important of attractions, Gisele -- super model extraordinaire.

We’re talking, of course, about Brazil; and while riveting visions of carnaval (as it is spelled in the native tongue, Portuguese) comes to mind, and probably more images of Gisele flashing before your eyes (as Modern Organic Divas, we also appreciate the loveliness of Gisele and frankly anyone that snags the yummy Leo DiCaprio is absolutely okay with us), there is something else very unique about Brazil that will really grab your attention, too.

Grown in the wilds of the rainforest from trees the locals refer to as “The Tree of Life” is a small, dark purple palm berry that is considered the healthiest fruit on the planet.

Acai (ah-sigh-ee) is an energizing super fruit (which has a sweet flavor of berries with a hint of chocolate) that is rich in proteins, fiber, vitamin E, minerals and important essential fatty acids. (Disclaimer: the Modern Organic Divas represent Sambazon for marketing and public relations, the leading producer of Acai). Acai’s antioxidant concentration surpasses even blueberries and it is also a valuable, natural cholesterol controller – which reduces the bad and increases the good. Additional studies on Acai have also discovered that it builds the immune system, fights infection, protects the heart, and can control prostate enlargement.

So, where does one get their hands on this super fruit that is actually a superfood (that even makes wheatgrass seem so yesterday)? Not to worry if Brazil is not in your immediate future.

The Acai berry is delicate and perishable. It actually comes to the United States by way of a puree that is typically made into a smoothie or juice cocktail. Sambazon is the company that brought this treasure to the States (thanks to a couple of guys who discovered Acai while surfing in Brazil a few years ago and realized they needed to share it with the rest of the world.) Sambazon’s Acai can also be found at juice bars, natural supermarkets and health food stores.

In addition to enjoying Acai as a smoothie, it also packs a punch as a great way to start your day or even as a pick-me-up in the afternoon when it is served in a bowl and topped with granola and sliced banana.

As one of the many treasures of Brazil, coupled with its surmounting health benefits and nutrients, Acai has certainly proven to be the berry on top of the cake.