Have you heard about the amazing acai berry? It is showing up in supplements, smoothie mixes and juices and being touted as a “superfood” said to help prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, aging and even promote weight loss. Is it worth the hype (and price)? Are acai berries better than plain old blueberries?

They both contain a group of phytochemicals called anthocyanins. Plants contain various phytochemicals that help the plant fight disease, fungal infections and free radical damage. They help at the cellular level. So, we benefit from these protective factors when we consume the plants. The phytochemicals such as anthocyanins improve our overall health.

Have you ever wondered why blueberries are blue and broccoli is green? Maybe not, but the interesting thing is these phytochemicals not only benefit the plant, but they also give the plant their characteristics. Blueberries and acai berries obtain their gorgeous coloring from anthocyanins.

When you consume purple plants, the anthyocyanins have several benefits to your body. They contain a large amount of antioxidants which fight free radicals and repair free radical damage at the cellular level. We obtain free radicals from the environment via chemicals, industrial pollution, car exhaust and UV rays amongst others. Free radicals are also produced during digestion. Foods high in sugar, chemicals and fat contribute a large amount of free radicals. These free radicals contribute to overall poor health and aging.

These same foods, especially high-fat animal protein and refined carbohydrates, also contribute to systemic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory properties in anthocyanins combat this systemic inflammation. Systemic inflammation is at the root of many disease processes including obesity.

So, if blueberries and acai berries both contain high amounts of anthocyanins, why are acai berries so highly regarded whereas blueberries seem to have gone back to being, well, just a fruit topping for pancakes?

Acai berries have an extremely high ORAC score compared to most fruits and vegetables. ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorption Capabilities, and it is a measure of how much the food prevents free radical damage. Acai berries have around 5500 whereas blueberries contain 2400. Acai berries also contain a near perfect blend of essential amino acids which is rare for a plant.

However, you will not find acai berries in the produce department like blueberries. They only grow in the Amazon and we have yet to figure out how to supply these gorgeous berries for regular consumption. You will have to suffice for supplements, extracts or powders. The juices may contain sugar or corn syrup and low amounts of actual acai berry.

Ultimately, it is best to take in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to benefit from a variety of beneficial phytochemicals. They work synergistically in the body to promote overall good health. An acai berry supplement may also be a great idea to add to a healthy diet, especially during the winter months when fresh produce is not as plentiful.

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