When free radicals come into contact with some cells, like those in the DNA structure, or even a cell’s membrane, negative reactions con occur. Cells could die or malfunction, for example. To avoid this negativity, antioxidants come to the rescue.

Antioxidants are basically molecules that can interact with free radicals in a safe manner. They stop any potentially harmful chain reaction affect. The main antioxidants that help against free radicals are vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene, plus some of the trace element selenium.

The Acai berry contains up to five times more antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable, as well as Omega-6, Omega-9, and other important fatty acids. Adding this to your diet means a decrease of not only cancer but also cardiovascular disease, even heart attacks, and an improved immune system. Overall good health is the bottom line with this berry that boasts protein equal to that of an egg.

All fruits, berries and vegetables have great nutritional and food value. For people on-the-go who want to maintain the 5-8 servings of antioxidant foods per day, exotic berries, including Acai berry supplements, are a good snack choice. They contain up to five times more antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable, including much touted prunes and raisins.

Where to Find Acai Berries

You can find these helpful berries on the beautiful coast areas of Central and South America on a palm tree, the Acai Palm, species (Euterpe oleracea), to be exact. Palm hearts of the saplings are often used in salads, raw cereal products, and in healthy teas and juices. While large older palm portions are used in roofing, fans and clothing materials.

The small 1-inch berry is juicy inside and a bit firm on the outside. It looks almost like a blueberry, yet tastes almost like a blackberry with a tiny bit of chocolate flavoring. Look out addiction time!