How to Pronounce Acai?
This is the most commonly asked question and the correct way to pronounce Acai is: “ah-sigh-ee”.
What is Acai?
Acai is the fruit of the acai palm tree which grows throughout the Amazonian river in south America.They don't last long on a shelf so you can generally find them as frozen form. The oblong, deep purple berries grow in large sprays on fan-like branches. The acai berry is actually just 10% fruit, 10% pulp and 80% seed, making most of the acai actually inedible!
The Açai palm takes 10 to 12 years to bear fruit, but once mature, a single palm can produce thousands of fruits in one season.
Acai are rich in nutrients and also contains anthocyanin & flavonoids, compounds known for their antioxidant qualities.
According to Mayo Clinic, acai berries may have more antioxidants than other berries: “Acai berries contain antioxidants… They may have more antioxidant content than other commonly eaten berries, such as cranberries, blueberries and strawberries.”
You may get your Acai fix over here. Acai products are readily available and can be enjoyed with toppings like granola or cookie butter.
Health Benefits of Acai Berry (Link of sources below)
1. Lowers Bad Cholesterol
Acai contains omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids which help in lowering and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
2. Boosts Immunity
Acai is loaded with antioxidants which reduce free radicals and protect the body from infections and diseases.
3. Prevents Heart Disease
Polyphenols are the abundant antioxidants in Acai berries which enhance heart health in general.
4. Improves Digestion
Acai contains fibre content which promotes digestion and prevents constipation.
How Acai is Made?
Acai is made from Acai berries and it comes in various forms, depending on how they are being processed. These are the 3 different types of Acai:
1. Pure Organic Acai Pulp
The Pure Organic Acai Pulp is the freshest and healthiest form - ZERO sugar and organic. The Acai berries are harvested, washed, and funnelled into a grinding machine to separate the skin from the seed. Then, the Acai berries are pulped, pasteurized, and packed without adding any sweeteners and artificial ingredients. Immediately after packing, they will be sent to be deep-frozen. These must be done within 48 hours after they are harvested since Acai berries are highly perishable and become inedible 3 days after harvesting.
The Pure Organic Acai Pulp is suitable for those who are diabetic, on a keto diet, or on a clean and sugar-free diet! They must be blended with other ingredients and fruits of your choice before eating - these can be blended into an Acai bowl or Acai smoothie. You may purchase Smoof’s Pure Organic Acai Pulp here.
2. Organic Acai Pulp Sweetened with Guarana
The sweetened Acai pulp is similar to the Pure Organic Acai Pulp, except that it is sweetened with Guarana. This is suitable for those with a sweet tooth! Likewise, these must be blended before consumption. You may purchase Smoof’s Organic Acai Pulp with Guarana here.
3. Ready to Serve Acai
Ready to Serve Acai is processed with different sweeteners, stabilisers, and emulsifiers. They are ready to eat without the need to blend which is suitable for those who prefer a fuss-free option and for those who enjoy Acai as a dessert indulgence. They come in various types such as Acai Sorbet, Acai Softserve, and Acai Bowl. You can even create your own Acai bowl by topping it off with various toppings like bananas, blueberries, granola, coconut flakes, goji berries, chia seeds, and cookie butter for extra flavour! You may purchase Smoof’s Acai Sorbet here.
With its massive health benefits, Acai makes a nutritious and guilt-free indulgence!
References:
Jennings, M. K. S. (2017, May 31). 5 Impressive Health Benefits of Acai Berries. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-acai-berries
Ware, M. R. (2018, May 23). What are the health benefits of acai berries? Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/305576#nutrition