Açaí is a purple colored fruit typical of the Amazon region, which brings health benefits such as:
- Prevent cancer and Alzheimer's by being rich in ômaga-9 and anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants;
- Decrease bad cholesterol due to the presence of omega-9;
- Prevent atherosclerosis by being rich in antioxidants and by helping to control cholesterol;
- Strengthen the immune system by being rich in vitamin C;
- Prevent premature aging by being rich in flavonoid antioxidants;
- Improve bowel function by being rich in fiber;
- Fight anemia by containing iron and vitamin B.
To get these benefits, you should consume about 100 to 200 g of açai twice a week, or 50 g of that fruit daily.
Does Acai get fat?
When consumed properly and on a healthy diet, the açaí does not gain weight. However, when this fruit is consumed in excess can lead to weight gain, especially when other ingredients are added to the recipe, such as banana, milk powder and condensed milk, as they leave the meal even more caloric.
In addition, it is important to remember that one should prefer the consumption of pure açaí pulp, without the addition of guarana syrup, since guarana leaves the mixture with twice as many calories.
Nutrition information and how to use it
The following table shows the nutritional composition in 100 g of açaí.
| Amount per 100 g of açaí | |||
| Energy: 247 calories | |||
| Proteins | 3.8 g | Vitamin B1 | 360 mcg |
| Fats | 12.2 g | Calcium | 118 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 36.6 g | Iron | 11.8 mg |
| Fibers | 2.6 g | Vitamin C | 17.0 mg |
| Potassium | 124 mg | Phosphor | 0.5 mg |
This fruit can usually be found in the form of frozen pulp, and can be used in juices, vitamins, yogurts, desserts and cakes. Some healthy ingredients that can be used along with the açaí are the banana, the granola without sugar and the chestnut.
Acai Recipes in the Bowl
Ingredients:
- 400 g of açaí
- 2 bananas
- 4 tablespoons unsweetened granola
Method of preparation:
Beat the açaí and 1 banana in the blender until you get a cream. Put in a bowl and add the other banana cut into slices and the granola.
See other typical fruits of the Amazon region that are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and omega-3:
- Tucumã helps lower cholesterol and fight diabetes
- Camu-camu - The fruit that has more Vitamin C
