Nutrition

Nutrition

The nutritional value of our Acai pulp is extraordinary and the scientifically proven energetic properties along with its delicious taste has created a growing demand from manufactures and consumers. Acai appeals to the most sophisticated palate, its taste reminiscent of berries with a hint of chocolate. It has become a popular beverage in juice bars, health clubs and wellness centres, coffee bars(for that caffeine kick) and in many homes where health conscious consumers have taken notice.

Loaded with Antioxidants - The Acai Berry is especially noteworthy for the antioxidant properties afforded by its concentration of anthocyanins. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, help the body fight off free radicals. They prevent damage to connective tissue while repairing damaged proteins in blood vessel walls. Studies show a link between the use of antioxidants to help in the fight against premature aging, cancer, cardiovascular and ophthalmological deseases. Healthy hair and skin, natural energy, fewer headaches and a feeling of positive general wellbeing are just some signs of increased antioxidant intake. The antioxidant content in acai leaves all other fruits struggling to catch up.

-3 times greater than blueberries

-2 times greater than pomegranates

-10 to 33 times greater than red wine

Essential Fatty Acids -Omega 6-9 Fatty Acids (the Good for you fats), which are contained in the Acai berry, help battle harmful LDL cholesterol while helping to maintain beneficial HDL levels. Add to this the high concentration of phytosterols (which reduce blood plasma cholesterol), the heart-healthy and anti-aging properties of this fruit are beyond compare. It even has a fatty acid ratio resembling that of olive oil, which is thought to be a contributing factor to the low incidence of heart desease in Mediterranean populations. Difiiciencies in EFA's is linked to many serious health conditions so increasing one's essential fatty acid intake may help improve mental focus (ADHD), help decrease the chance of heart attack and stroke and reduce the risk of depression.

Vitamins & Minerals - Acai provides a natural range of important vitamins and minerals. Included are vitamin B1(Thiamine), vitamin B2(Riboflavin), vitamin B3(Niacin), vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E; and minerals such as iron, copper, zinc, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. Acai berries are also high in fibre. Foods high in fibre help move substances through the digestive track and arteries and is said to help prevent colon cancer. These along with essential amino acids aid in endurance, strength, sustained energy, proper muscle contraction, regeneration and digestion.

Calcium - Acai has a significant amount of calcium. Calcium helps to strengthen bones and helps develop healthy teeth and gums. Calcium-rich foods tend to coat the lining of the stomach and uterus and reduce pain from cramps and bloating. Comparing Acai to milk, the berries contain 3 times as many lipids, 7 times the carbohydrates, 118 times the iron, 9 times as much Vitamin B1 and 8 times as much vitamin C. They also have the same amount of protein and calcium as in milk. Acai berries may be a proverbial "Fountain of Youth."

Low Glycemic Index - Another benefit of Acai is its low glycemic index. The glycemic index is the ranking of carbohydrates based on their effect on blood glucose levels. Carbohydrates that breakdown slowly, releasing glucose gradually into the blood stream, have a low glycemic index. Foods that are low in glycemic levels are slow to digest and be absorbed into the body's bloodstream and cause the body's blood sugar and insulin levels to rise slowly. This benefits those who want to control their wieght because it helps control appetite and delay hunger.

People's vitality today is often expresssed in phycical activities and mental wellbeing. Due to the almost completely maintained vitamin and mineral profiles of our Acai products, our Nova Acai juice and Smoothie Mix play an important role in maintaining a healthy diet by providing part of the dialy allowance of certain vitamins and minerals based on Canada's Food Guide.