7 Acai Berry Benefits You Should Know About

While grapes, blueberries and strawberries may be the popular guys, acai berry is no odd-man-out in terms of their nutrient contents. In fact, acai berry is one of the healthiest in the group. Here are some of the health benefits of acai berry that you should know.

Contributes to a Healthy Heart

Consumption of acai berries could lead to healthier cardiovascular system as they contain high amounts of anthocyanins, a form of plant antioxidant and also found in red wine, says the Global Healing Center.

Anthocyanins help in lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. Apart from this antioxidant, acai berries are also high that prevents blood clots, improve blood circulation and relaxes the blood vessels.

Helps in Weight Loss

The weight loss benefits of acai berries goes beyond helping you lose some pounds, but also in keeping a normal weight.

According to a National Institutes of Aging study, the pulp from the acai berry can lower the adverse effect of a high-fat diet in laboratory studies on flies. And, because of the high fiber content of acai berries, it helps in suppressing the appetite to avoid weight gain.

Cancer Prevention

The anthocyanins in acai berries, particularly the most common form C3G, can help in protecting the body against free radicals that contributes to cancer cell formation.

A University of Florida study back in 2006 indicates that acai extract was able to trigger the apoptotic death switch in 86 percent of leukemia cells, according to Natural News.

Immune System Boost

"The antioxidants in acai berries have a profound effect at reducing the oxidative stress that foreign invading microorganisms and environmental toxins produce," wrote Natural News.

"They also help the immune system to function at a higher level and increase their strength of attack against these opportunistic microbes."

For Healthier Skin

The benefits of acai berry for the skin is due to its antioxidant properties. In fact, acai oil is a common ingredient in some modern cosmetic products that helps in relieve irritation and redness, and as a moisturizer, says Organic Facts.

Digestion and Intestinal Health

Acai berries are also known to contribute to a normal waste excretion because of its high fiber content. Its detoxifying properties also help in cleansing the digestive system.

Healthy Scalp and Shiny Hair

"Its high protein content and omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids mean that the açai berry is also great for your hair. It contains folic acid and zinc, which has been known to contribute to scalp health and root strength," wrote the The Huffington Post.