The acai berry is an inch-long, reddish-purple fruit. It comes from the acai palm tree, which is native to Central and South America. Some studies show that acai fruit pulp is even richer in antioxidants than cranberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, or blueberries.
One of the most delicious members of the superfood squad — a.k.a. the cool kids of the food pyramid — is a fruit you’ve probably seen all over your Instagram feed. Açaí (pronounced ah-sigh-EE) is best known for being the not-so-secret ingredient in picture-perfect smoothie bowls, but there’s more to these berries than just their good looks.
Superfood Qualities of Açaí
What is açaí, anyway? Found on açaí palm trees in South American rainforests, açaí berries are a lot like grapes. The seed takes up about 80% of the berry, but the flesh and skin pack plenty of vitamins and other nutrients in the remaining 20%. Not to mention the berries are only about 70 calories a cup.
Health Claims of Açaí
Do these berries live up to their nickname “purple gold”? They are powerful !
“Although lots of people eat these berries — amongst other foods — for their ‘magical powers,’ you’re not going to find magic in one food,” says Bonnie Taub-Dix, RDN, author of Read It Before You Eat It. “The magic comes from a diet that contains a variety of foods that work in concert with each other.”