What Is Açaí?
Açaí berries are small, dark-colored berries (they look much like blueberries) that come from the açaí palm, primarily growing in the Amazon area of South America. In addition to containing natural sugars and fiber, açaí berries have a higher healthy fat content than most berries, which helps to keep a high level of satiety.
Another way in which açaí differs from most berries is the fact that acai berries have pits. In fact, the açaí pit is usually large enough to make up as much as 80% of the berry itself. This is similar to other foods like dates, apricots, and even olives. However, since açaí is typically used in the same contexts as other berries, it’s considered to be a member of the berry category.
More Facts About Açaí
Açaí — sometimes spelled açaí — is a berry that comes from a South American palm tree. The açaí plant grows up to 100 feet tall and thrives in rainforest habitats where flooding occurs regularly. While açaí is a relatively new ‘superfood’ to North American and European markets, indigenous tribes of the Amazon region have eaten it for centuries.
One portion (100 grams, or just under half a cup) of açaí berry puree provides calories, 1.4g of protein, 18g of carbohydrates, and 0.2g of fat. These berries are not a significant source of any vitamin or mineral. The USDA provides this nutrition information.
- Very High in Antioxidants
- Boosts Skin Health
- Helps with Cognitive Functioning
- Might Help Control Your Appetite and Boost Weight Loss