Beneficial properties and contraindications of acai berries, their use for weight loss and in cosmetology

What is acai

Acai (Euterpa vegetable) is a palm of the genus Euterpa, common in Brazil. It is most cultivated in the state of Pará for its edible core and fruits, which contain many useful substances.

The height of the tree is 12-20 m, the diameter of the trunk does not exceed 15-20 cm. In the wild, the palm tree grows in damp places, along river banks in groups of 4-8 trees.

The fruit is a dark purple berry-shaped drupe, each panicle containing 500-900 fruits. The harvest is harvested twice a year; 25 kg of berries can be collected from one tree. Oil containing large amounts of palmitic acid is squeezed out of the fruit.

The acai palm is an important food source for the inhabitants of the Amazon delta. The Caboclo Indians traditionally received almost half of their nutrition from this crop. The plant is mainly grown for its fruits, from which a thick acai na tijela sorbet is made. The heartwood of the palm can also be eaten, but at present, the closely related species of jusar is usually cultivated to obtain this product.

Taste and smell

The taste of acai berries is ambiguous. To some, it resembles the taste of grapes, while others draw a parallel with the taste of raspberries. There are even those who have detected notes of nuts or dark chocolate in acai fruits.

Typically, acai berries are odorless. But some people still detect subtle notes of blackcurrant, blueberry or grape.

Compound

The chemical composition of acai berries is presented as follows:

• vitamin A (retinol);
• vitamin C (ascorbic acid);
• vitamin E (tocopherol);
• omega-6 and omega-9;
• pectin (fiber);
• calcium;
• potassium;
• iron;
• magnesium;
• anthocyanins;
• phytosterols;
• cyanidin;
• amino acids: cysteine, lysine, methionine.

The fruits are high in calories. The calorie content of 100 g of product is 160 calories. BJU per 100 g:

• proteins - 9.8 g;
• fats - 54 g;
• carbohydrates - 32 g.

Photo of acai berries

Vitamin content

The main component of the pulp of the Brazilian acai berry is vitamins. Some norms are gigantic (mg / 100 g):

• B1 (thiamine) – 360;
• B2 (riboflavin) – 10;
• B3 (niacin) – 0.4;
• B5 (pantothenic acid) – 0.4;
• C (ascorbic acid) – 9;
• E (tocopherols) – 2.7.

Berries contain 240 times more thiamine and 5.5 times more riboflavin than the daily requirement. The chemical composition of the fruit is supplemented by useful micro- and macroelements (mg / 100 g):

• magnesium – 174;
• potassium – 118;
• iron – 11.8;
• phosphorus – 0.5.

Smaller doses include silicon, zinc, beta-carotene, and cyanidin. There are 18 amino acids, of which 10 are essential. Almost all the fat is healthy polyunsaturated and saturated acids (the most valuable for humans are omega-6 - 690 and omega-9 - 2700 mg per 100 g of pulp).

Acai berries - truth or scam?

The first to promote the superfood acai berry was MonaVie. According to them, the fruits of the Brazilian palm tree prevent the development of cancer, heart disease and are effective for weight loss. After this, many companies, without checking this data, began mass production of dietary supplements and drinks based on acai fruits, which later led to scandals.

The first scandal was related to the fact that a sharp increase in the volume of exported berries led to the fact that the natives of Brazil lost their traditional and main source of food. As a result, the Indians began to starve, mortality increased and diseases began to spread more actively. It also led to serious problems in the ecosystem.

Another scandal arose over the mythical properties of acai. In fact, no research has been conducted regarding the healing properties of these fruits for the human body, and all the manufacturers’ claims were just a well-planned marketing ploy. In 2010, the American Federal Trade Commission made an official statement in which it was noted that this product does not prevent cancer and does not affect weight loss.

Another scandal arose against the background of the fact that many acai drinks contained no more than 10% natural juice, but at the same time they contained a lot of preservative E211 - sodium benzoate. When interacting with vitamin C, it produces a highly toxic substance - benzene, which can lead to obesity and cancer.

After these scandals, acai-based drinks and dietary supplements were banned in many countries. There is no accurate information about the benefits and harms of Brazilian palm berries and their full chemical composition. For this reason, it is up to you whether to use this product or not.

In Russia, only 2 drinks based on acai fruits that have passed safety tests are distributed legally. These are "MonaVie Active" and "MonaVie EMV".

Acai berries compared to goji berries

Both acai and goji berries are nutrient-packed superfoods. Like acai, goji berries have been used for thousands of years and date back to the origins of traditional Chinese medicine.

• At TMC, goji berries are praised for increasing stamina, strength, libido, fertility, heart health and longevity.
• Like acai, goji berry is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, B6. It also contains 18 essential amino acids, linoleic acid, beta-carotene, 21 trace elements, germanium and selenium.
• One of the benefits of Goji berries is that they are free of saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol. Saturated fats are not a problem for most people and usually pose no risk. Some people can afford to consume less due to existing health problems. Although their quantity in acai is still very small.
• Goji also has higher levels of vitamin A , iron, vitamin C and calcium than acai. However, in acai's favor, goji is slightly higher in sugar and carbohydrates.

In terms of antioxidant concentration, acai comes out on top with an ORAC score. It is estimated at 102,000 versus 30,000 for goji berries.

Beneficial features

The rich chemical composition of the Brazilian acai berry provides the following benefits for the human body:

• has a positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system - eating berries helps reduce the level of bad cholesterol, normalizes blood glucose levels, prevents the development of ischemia and atherosclerosis;
• increases immunity;
• has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• eliminates toxins, waste and harmful substances from the body;
• has an antioxidant effect;
• slows down the aging process;
• increases sexual desire;
• eliminates fatigue, gives a boost of vigor;
• increases mental activity;
• fights sleep disturbances;
• has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, eliminates stress and minimizes the risk of compulsive overeating.

This is the main indication for taking acai berries.

Reviews from doctors about the beneficial properties of acai berries

Many doctors believe that berries have general benefits for the body. At the same time, experts note that berries do not have a magical effect on weight loss.

Trichologists say that masks and shampoos with acai extract help treat hair, but you should always look for the cause of the disease and not hide the symptoms.

Athletes use acai as a source of protein to help build muscles and restore energy after workouts.

Some psychotherapists recommend the use of acai berries. This berry can help activate the brain and relieve stress.

Release forms

You can find a large number of products on sale that contain acai berries. Most often, these products come in the following forms:

• The drinks are an excellent multivitamin supplement to include in your daily diet. Regular consumption of this drink helps strengthen the immune system and accelerate metabolic processes in the body, which has a positive effect on weight loss. This product is recommended as an additional source of energy. The drink goes well with a drinking or detox diet. The main disadvantage of this form of release is the high risk of purchasing a counterfeit and not natural juice. You can buy the original juice from Now Foods, the price for 1 liter starts from $30. Among those who are on a diet, the 48-hour acai detox liquid from Garden Greens, AcaiCleanse (price for 947 ml is 2066 rubles) is especially popular.
• Natural oil - has a positive effect on the skin and hair condition. The organic composition of the product helps smooth out the first wrinkles, giving the facial skin elasticity and firmness. In addition, the oil can be used as an additive to nourishing masks and creams. It can be used for anti-cellulite wraps along with other oils. According to advertising, this product eliminates stretch marks, enhances collagen synthesis in cells, and makes the skin silky. You should pay attention to Acai Oil Treatment products from Amazon Series, Mohani, Cadiveu.
• Powder - recommended to take 1 tsp as a dietary supplement. daily morning and evening, diluting this amount with 200 ml of water or other liquid. Systematic use of this product helps cleanse the body of toxins, waste and other harmful substances, increases protective functions, improves cardiac function and reduces the amount of bad cholesterol in the blood. Another benefit of the powder is that it provides additional energy. Recommended manufacturers: Medoveya, Xian Frank Herb Biotech, Royal Forest, Gifts of the Pamirs, Now Foods, Navitas Organics, Sunfood, California Gold Nutrition.
• Natural fruits - their consumption has a positive effect on the processes of cleansing the body and the functioning of the digestive system.
• Capsules are a dietary supplement containing berry extract that have a powerful antioxidant effect and are the most purchased form of acai fruit. They are useful for those who are on a diet or adhere to the principles of vegetarianism. Drink 2 capsules once a day with meals. Famous brands: Acai Berry from Natrol (USA), Paradise Herbs, 21st Century.
• Acai bowls are protein drinks that are part of sports nutrition and contain the main component - acai berries. It is healthier and more correct to use them frozen, but you can also use powder. It is added to cocktails, smoothies, and yoghurts, which are drunk immediately after training. This drink promotes rapid muscle recovery, provides additional energy, and activates fat burning processes. Berry bowls became especially popular thanks to the martial arts master and jiu-jitsu Carlos Gracie, who created a special diet for athletes that bears his name. Classic acai bowls include strawberries, bananas, and granola.
• Vitamin complexes - contain acai fruit extract; they are taken during weight loss to prevent exhaustion. Produced in capsule form, the most famous brand is Life Extension.

Appearance (photo) of acai berries

Fruit-based cosmetics

Acai is also used in cosmetics. Oils based on them have a beneficial effect on the external condition. For example:

• the skin becomes soft;
• its tone and elasticity increases;
• rejuvenation occurs;
• inflammatory formations pass;
• the level of microbes on the epidermal layer decreases.

Thus, if you have the following problems, you should start using acai oils:

• aging skin;
• dry, brittle hair;
• peeling of the skin;
• presence of acne;
• eczema, seborrhea;
• muscle pain;
• increased swelling.

Uses of acai berries

Acai fruits are widely used in cooking, medicine, cosmetology and for weight loss. Below is more detail about each of these uses.

In cooking

Acai fruits are widely used in cooking. They are used to prepare salads, desserts and added to baked goods. On an industrial scale, acai fruit powder is added to sauces, ice cream and yoghurts. In Latin America, soft, alcoholic and energy drinks containing Brazilian palm fruit extract are very popular.

In medicine

In medical practice, the fruits of the Brazilian palm tree are used as a prophylactic against various diseases. The plant substances present in the fruits prevent cell aging processes.

Experts recommend that people with diabetes include acai fruits or juice in their diet, as they normalize blood sugar levels. At the same time, excessive consumption of this product can lead to the opposite effect, that is, to an increase in glucose levels.

In cosmetology

Many cosmetics manufacturers use acai extract to make cosmetics. The most popular are creams, lotions and gels with acai fruits.

According to the manufacturers, the plant pigment anthocyanin present in the product is effective at the first signs of skin aging, and phytosterols heal and intensively moisturize the dermis.

For weight loss

Most often, acai berries are consumed by those who are on a diet and dream of becoming slimmer. This is due to the fact that fiber gives long-lasting satiety, improves digestion processes and absorption of substances, accelerating metabolism. Acai powder and capsules are commonly used for weight loss.

But is it safe to lose weight with the help of these miracle berries? According to official medicine, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Federal Trade Commission (USA), there is no evidence-based scientific basis for the benefits of acai. At the same time, on the Internet you can find many reviews about the negative effects of the product on the body, rather than about the fact that it actually helped you lose weight. Therefore, whether you should lose weight with acai berries or not is up to you to decide. By the way, some compare acai fruits with goji berries, although these are different products that can have different effects on the body’s functioning and weight loss processes.

What properties do acai berries have?

Among the benefits of this superfood, the fact is often noted that the beneficial properties are contained not only in fresh euterpe fruits, but also in other forms. For example, powder is used in medicine, while athletes prefer juice or bowls.

Beneficial properties of acai fruit

Euterpe fruits are not only pleasant to taste, they also have a lot of positive effects on the body:

• normalize digestion, remove waste and toxins;
• stabilize the heart, help strengthen the walls of blood vessels;
• moisturize the skin, slow down the aging process;
• strengthen the immune system;
• activate brain activity.

They also have a beneficial effect on the nervous system during stress.

Benefits of Acai Berry Powder

When dried, some beneficial properties are destroyed, but the concentration of other elements increases several times, for example, iron, calcium, tocopherol.

The powder is used for cocktails because it has the following properties:

• activates the immune system;
• the spread of free radicals is minimized;
• metabolism accelerates;
• increases the overall tone of the body.

In addition, the powder restores strength, energy, and also improves mood.

Properties of acai juice

Acai juice is highly concentrated. It contains a large number of useful elements - protein, fiber, iron, calcium, thiamine, fats. And thanks to its low sugar content, it can be taken during a diet, as well as for people with high sugar levels.

Fresh juice increases activity, the antioxidant effect helps energize the body.

It is recommended to dilute the juice with water, as high concentrations can lead to negative consequences.

Properties of acai oil

The pulp of euterpa is very often used to make oil. It is very popular among cosmetologists, as it contains fatty acids, vitamins B, C, E, as well as phosphorus, calcium, phenols, and phytosterols.

The oil has a number of cosmetic effects - moisturizes the skin, tones and nourishes it. Fights early aging, wrinkles, and age spots. It is noted that regular use prevents the development of cancer.

Recommendations

If you plan to take acai berries for weight loss, then you must adhere to certain rules:

1. Before starting a diet, it is recommended to consult an endocrinologist, therapist or nutritionist.
2. It is best to eat freeze-dried or frozen, but natural fruits. They are consumed instead of an afternoon snack or lunch.
3. In order for the effect of eating berries to be effective, while losing weight it is necessary to give up junk food, exercise and reduce the daily caloric content of foods.
4. Consuming a serving of acai berries before training will enhance your performance and increase your calorie expenditure per session.
5. While taking acai berries, you should drink at least 2 liters of clean water without gases per day.

Acai berries in a beautiful plate

Acai powder, composition and beneficial properties

You cannot find fresh fruits of the Euterpe palm tree in stores - the transportability of acai berries is their drawback. It is impossible to transport them fresh; the berries spoil the very next day after picking. Therefore, the berries are processed in the country of origin and exported to other countries in the form of acai powder, extract or dried fruit. Based on acai powder, dietary supplements (BAS) are made for food. Their properties are different and are usually aimed at losing weight, improving the digestive system or complex vitamin therapy.

Contraindications

Can acai berries harm the human body? Yes, if you take them and use them in the following cases:

• individual intolerance;
• age under 18 years;
• tendency to allergies and obesity;
• any types of disorders (nervous, intestinal, nutritional);
• pathologies of the heart, kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract.

At the same time, if the product is consumed in excess, this can lead to an imbalance in the acid-base balance and a sharp increase in blood glucose levels. For this reason, people with diabetes should not overuse berries. Since there is no reliable and accurate information about the effect of this product on the human body, it is advisable to avoid acai berries during lactation.

In all other cases, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using the product.

Myths and reality

So, we come to the most interesting thing - what is known about these berries is true, and what is false?

Let's remember where acai berries grow - in Brazil. For us, this product is considered exotic, and therefore it is expensive and mysterious. Well, that is, with a thoughtful “vaporization”, we will buy it. This is exactly what the MonaVie company did in 2004, claiming that acai berry extract helps with weight loss, treats cancer, and also has an anti-aging effect.

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The marketing strategy was a success and boxes of frozen or dried fruits floated and flew to our regions en masse. As a result, the poor Brazilian aborigines faced... hunger. The scale of export was so enormous that the indigenous people of the Amazon had nothing to eat.

A few years later, the independent US Trade Commission conducted a study and proved that the fruits are ineffective in the fight against cancer and do not promote weight loss. I also discovered a harmful additive in the exported juice – preservative E211 or sodium benzoate. Interacting with vitamin C, the latter is converted into the toxic component benzene, which, on the contrary, can cause cellular mutations (oncology) or disrupt lipid metabolism (promote obesity).

The scandal was terrible, many countries stopped importing acai-based food supplements.

However, the statement about the anti-aging effect turned out to be true. Indeed, if you look at the natives in Brazil who eat acai berries, their lack of wrinkles will be noticeable, even in old age. As a result, many cosmetic companies began to add oil squeeze and acai extract to their products.

Dietary supplements, drinks, powders, oils and vitamin complexes began to be produced again. Now they drink them for health, beauty and energy. To date, only two products in Russia have passed state quality and safety testing - MonaVie Active and MonaVie EMV drinks.

If you live in Europe or America, you can try a frozen berry product:

Reviews

Vasilisa, 25 years old

I drank acai berries to lose weight. The excess weight didn’t go away at all, I even gained 2 kg. Now I’m on an oatmeal, coffee, liquid diet and exercise to get myself in order.

Ilona, ​​36 years old

On one of the sites I read about the benefits of acai fruit for weight loss. I decided to try to see if this product really works. For 2 weeks, I drank a glass of water twice a day with the addition of 1 tsp. acai powder. As a result, the weight was 3 kg, while I practically did not change my usual lifestyle.

Miroslava, 29 years old

Twice a year I take acai berries in monthly courses. I drink natural juice based on them and make smoothies. I noticed that after using them my health and mood improved. Although several times after using them I had diarrhea.

Acai berries are a superfood that is sure to find its admirers among athletes and those who adhere to the basics of proper nutrition. But should you eat them? Only you can answer this question based on the purpose for which you plan to use them. If the issue is excess weight, then it is better to pay attention to sports and remove junk food from your diet. You can improve the condition of the skin, for example, using plasma lifting or bio-reinforcement of the face, homemade masks with oatmeal, honey, gelatin, egg, yeast, sour cream or ice cubes. Remember, if you feel worse after eating berries, remove them from your diet and consult your doctor.

What kind of fruit is this? Palm of the genus Euterpe

The second name is Euterpe vegetable. Ripe fruits are collected from the Brazilian Acai palm tree, on whose branches the berries grow in clusters. The berries themselves do not have their own name; they are named after the name of the palm tree from which they are collected.

The tree, when it reaches its final flowering, reaches a height of 30 meters. It is difficult to confuse the palm of the genus Euterpe with other fruit-bearing trees, since it is very remarkable, and not only due to its “growth”. Its branches are long, hanging, along which several berries are “planted”. At the end of the branch grows a rosette of leaves, the length of which reaches 3 meters.

Acai berries are similar in size to the industrial variety of grapes that many people often grow in their gardens. The peel color is dark purple. If you cut the fruit, you will find a rather large bone, which is located in the center of the pulp. And the pulp itself is soft, light, juicy, very similar to that of grapes.

The shape of the berries is a ball, but there are also elongated varieties. Those who have tasted the fruit have mixed opinions about it. The fact that they externally and internally resemble grapes does not at all affect the taste of the pulp. They note something similar, but at the same time acai berries vaguely resemble raspberries. There are also those who “saw” shades of dark chocolate and nuts in the taste of the fruit. This is such a combined taste.

When the harvest ends, from 20 to 26 kg of berries are collected from one palm tree.

Recommendations for use

Well, now you know what kind of plant this is - acai berries, and you have also become familiar with their real beneficial effects. Next, we will find out how to use them correctly.

1. During the course of taking the product, do not forget to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day;
2. If you are prone to allergies, be sure to test your reaction by eating a couple of berries;
3. It's best to eat acai bowl as a snack in the morning;
4. Fruits can disrupt the acid-base balance, so they should not be eaten on an empty stomach;
5. It is most beneficial to consume natural frozen or dried foods than powders, drinks and dietary supplements;
6. If you still have powder, you can prepare nutritious smoothies and cocktails; if you have oil, you can season salads with it, and also add it to porridge;

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