Açai: What it is, benefits and properties.

Açai is a fruit that comes from the jungle of Brazil, which has become very popular due to the great number of benefits it offers. The interest aroused by this Amazonian fruit, in almost all parts of the world, is due to the great contribution of vitamins, proteins, amino acids, fiber and healthy fats it contains. This fleshy fruit strengthens the immune system, fights the effects of aging and helps muscle growth. In this article, we offer you more information about its properties and benefits.

What is açai?

The açai is a fruit that comes from a palm tree, which grows in the humid areas of the Brazilian rainforest. Its color is purple and its size is very similar to that of a grape. In recent years, it has achieved great prominence for its enormous nutritional properties. Above all, because it favors digestion, eliminates impurities from the colon and helps weight loss.

This fruit is very similar to the blueberry, although it is a round and dark berry, measuring 10 to 14 mm. The fruit grows in clusters, called "cachos". It is most common to find between three and five clusters. They can only be harvested twice a year and are characterized by a very peculiar flavor: a mixture of grape, chocolate and raspberry.

Origin of açai

There is a legend that talks about the origin of the açai and its history. It is said that many centuries ago, at the mouth of the Amazon River, there lived a tribe, which was ruled by the chief Itaki. This population, after living comfortably and without hardship, faced starvation. Itaki decreed that no more children should be born or else they would be sacrificed for the good of all.

The chief's own daughter, Iaçá, became pregnant and gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. Although she implored her father that the baby should not be sacrificed, as Itaki was a man of his word, he did not spare the little girl's life. Her mother cried inconsolably until she was alerted by the cry of a child. When she opened the door she could see her daughter smiling at the foot of a palm tree.

When she tried to hug her, the little girl disappeared, then she noticed that she was hugging a palm tree. She cried inconsolably and lost the will to live. Later, Itaki found her dead daughter, with a smiling face, hugging this tree. She noticed that there was a cluster of dark purple berries, like her daughter's eyes. He ordered it to be picked and extracted its juice to feed his tribe. This made it possible to end the ban on giving birth.

For many generations, this berry has served as sustenance for all the natives of this region. Many of the inhabitants of Belém consume it daily, as juice, wine or to accompany fish. This was the great miracle of the tears of Iaçá and the history of the açai.

Properties of açai

Undoubtedly, its use in our diet is highly recommended because of the properties of açai. These berries are a great source of antioxidants because they have the ability to protect our cells. In addition, this fruit is recommended for all ages and can be consumed in various ways, as there are recipes for all tastes.

• Energy source.

  One of its main properties is that it is an incredible source of energy due to its vitamins, proteins and fiber. Ideal to mix in a yogurt, smoothie or juice to overcome fatigue.

• Helps the immune system.

  It has many antioxidants and fiber serves to prevent diseases, such as cancer, as well as to strengthen the body's defenses.

• Natural diuretic.

  This fruit is highly recommended for people who retain liquids and need to eliminate them.

• Reduces cholesterol levels

  . As it contains omegas, antioxidants and fiber, it helps to protect cardiovascular health.

In conclusion, it should be noted that this berry is ideal for detoxification of the body and is especially recommended for vegetarian diets and people who have a very high physical activity, such as athletes.

Preparing an açai bowl at home

As we already know all the benefits of açai, we are going to offer you a few tips so you can make your own bowl at home to start the day. Preparing a good breakfast with the energy intake that the body needs is very common to withstand the morning attitude.

• The recipe is very simple, just add milk, use açai powder, pieces of fruit and add a type of granola, such as our Original Granola or nuts.
• Place the fruit in the glass of a blender and add a little milk and the ground açai (five grams).
• Bananas, strawberries, apples or blueberries can be included, as well as almond milk and oat flakes.

In conclusion, we hope you are encouraged to try this delicious and beneficial fruit for our body. As we have explained, the nutritional properties are many and help us to be more energetic, protect our immune system, as well as feel much younger.