Function

• Acai is an antioxidant that works to defend the body against harmful free radicals that can lead to heart disease, diabetes and cancer. As the body performs functions such as breaking down sugar and medicines, or when the body is exposed to environmental toxins like smoke, cells become damaged by the oxidation process that occurs. Acai is a potent antioxidant that regenerates cells while protecting from viruses and illnesses.
  
  

Significance

• Acai is used to assist in the treatment of skin problems, cancer, diabetes, metabolism and weight loss. Diseases such as diabetes, cancer and psoriasis attack and destroy healthy cells. Acai acts as a healing agent to damaged cells, repairing and restoring by combating the oxidation processes that kill them and weaken the body's natural immune defenses. Acai is a preventative antioxidant that builds up the immune system for better resistance against exposure to free radicals and disease.
  
  

Benefits

• A 2006 study conducted at the University of Florida showed Acai extracts causing a positive response in 86 percent of cultured human leukemia cells that were tested, resulting in destruction of the cancer cells.
  
  Acai's high nutritional value as a fruit containing monosaturated fats may work to regulate dietary needs for diabetics, preventing blood sugar spikes and fatigue that may result from more water-soluble fruits.
  
  Acai contains above-average fiber content, aiding in the management of weight. High-fiber diets allow the body to feel full for longer durations of time and increase the expulsion of wastes. The fiber found in Acai works to regulate metabolism and suppress appetite.
  
  Rich antioxidant levels in Acai protect and strengthen cells from illness and degenerative processes thought to cause Alzheimer's, cardiovascular illness and high cholesterol.
  
  

Types

• Fresh Acai is difficult to obtain, as the fruit begins to lose its valued qualities within 24 hours of being picked. Frozen and dried Acai powder is available and can be used as a flavorful addition to baked good recipes and juices. Acai can be ingested by mouth as a daily supplement. The capsule and liquid forms of the berry are attainable in health stores and drugstores, with the liquid extract containing the highest levels of nutrients.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Acai is not a miracle fruit, but when used as an antioxidant in combination with a healthy diet and daily exercise, can have positive effects on the immune system, cell reparation and metabolic function. Acai has high concentrations of nutrients and antioxidant properties, as do vitamins C and E found in a plethora of fruits and vegetables such as berries, apples, artichokes, beans and potatoes.