The acai berry has become a very popular fruit around the world. But, how much do you really know about this nutritious and potent little fruit? If the answer is not too much, continue reading our article on acai berry facts for a better explanation of this fruit.

Where Do Acai Berries Come From?

Acai berries are small fruits that are about 1 inch in diameter and are usually compared to the size of large blueberries or small grapes. The berries have a very large inner kernel that is inedible. There is only 10%-20% of each berry that is edible pulp. Most of the ripe acai fruit has a color similar to the purple color of a plum, but some of the species produce green acai berries. No matter what color the acai berry is, they all have the same taste which is most often described as a blend of dark chocolate and ripe, mixed berries.

The acai berry fruit grows on the tops of acai palm trees, which are found in the Amazon along the floodplains of the rainforests. The actual berries are similar in size to small grapes, or large blueberries, and they hang in large clusters on slender stalks that are found at the top of the acai palms. Many of these trees grow over 50 feet in height. In addition to the berries, the acai palm tree produces hearts of palm tender leaf buds are which are edible as well. Natives of the rainforest areas have depended upon the nutrition provided by the acai tree and acai berries for many centuries. In the Amazon forest, this fruit has made up to 40% of the natives diet.

Natives of the Amazon rainforests and people who live in Brazil have praised this fruit for improving their health and bodies. They claim that using these berries has helped them in many different ways. Other individuals who have tried the acai berry for themselves are also saying that adding this powerhouse supplement to their diets has resulted in a number of positive effects.

The acai berries are harvested by hand and because they are so perishable, they must be either eaten or preserved quickly after harvesting. If the berries are intended to ship, they will usually be dried or freeze dried within 24 hours. This allows the acai berry to maintain its rich nutrients and antioxidant content. The palm trees produces two crops of the acai fruit each year.

Facts About Acai Berry Nutrients

These small, tropical fruits contain an amazing amount of healthy nutrients including high levels of:

• Omega Fatty Acids - Acai berries are also well known for the high levels of linoleic and oleic acids which they possess, and these are both effective at lowering the LDL cholesterol and increasing the amount of HDL cholesterol in humans.
• Amino Acids - As you may already know, amino acids play an important role in the functioning of your metabolic rate or metabolism. Essentially, they are the building blocks of protein.
• Fiber - Another great benefit from consuming acai berries is the high content of fiber. This natural and healthy source of fiber can be a great help to the digestive system.
• Antioxidants - One of the greatest perks from consuming acai berry is the high amount of antioxidants present. These acai berry antioxidants work to fight off free radicals and help to maintain good health. The acai berry also contains some of the most powerful antioxidants called anthocyanin flavonoids. The amount of anthocyanins in the acai berry is up to 30 times the amounts that are found in red wines.
• Vitamins - With so many benefits already mentioned, its hard to believe it is a good source of vitamins as well right? Well, the acai berry contains a number of vitamins, such as vitamin C, D, E, and B.

In Brazil and a few other sections of South America, you can enjoy the delicious nutrition of fresh acai berries. The fruit is frequently added to smoothies, ice cream, salty dishes or eaten raw with granola. The fresh juice is also available and has been used as a flavoring or as a liqueur.

People who live in other areas and countries may have a hard time locating fresh acai berries, because they do not transport well due to the fact that they are perishable. However, new methods of preserving this fruit are making it possible for everyone to have access to the nutritional benefits of the acai.