This little palmberry, growing wild in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, packs an amazing health punch. In fact, natives of Brazil have been eating açai for centuries, typically grinding it into a pulp to eat for breakfast or as an energizing snack. More recently, açai has begun to make a splash among the health-concious everywhere. And as you read about this wonderful little berry, you'll see why it's an important part of Xoçai.

Açai (pronounced AH-sci-EE) is a small berry with a hearty taste that some describe as a mix between berries and chocolate. Deep purple in color, açai is extremely rich in the very same antioxidants (anthocyanins) found in red wine (the reason why red wine can be good for you.) These strong antioxidants go to battle against free-radical molecules that invade the body, helping to combat premature aging and even help prevent serious diseases like heart disease. In fact, açai contains 10 to 30 times the antioxidants found in red wine!

Açai also contains an almost perfect complex of amino acids and vital trace minerals, elements that are essential to proper muscle contraction and regeneration. Plus, açai has a synergy of omega 6 and 9 fatty acids: the healthy, monounsaturated type of fat that can help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. Like most berries, açai berries are also a healthy source of natural fiber, good for the cardiovascular system and digestive tract health.

The açai berry is harvested by the natives of the Rain Forest who have been using it for thousands of years as a long lasting energy source. Only recently has the açai berry reached North America. The açai berry has a dark enchanting flavor, tasting like a blend of berries and chocolate.

Contained within its purple pigmentation is the substance that makes it nature's perfect energy fruit. Research on açai has shown that the açai berry provides the highest level of anti-oxidants known, up to 33 times the antioxidants contained in red wine grapes. These antioxidants are known to fight cholesterol buildup and regulate cholesterol levels in the body. Açai has two essential fatty acids known as Omega 6 (Linoleic acid) and Omega 9 (Oleic acid.) Omega 6 is known for lowering LDL, the harmful cholesterol and Omega 9 fatty acids also aid in lowering LDL but help to maintain high HDL (beneficial cholesterol) levels. The high antioxidant content of açai also contributes to attaining and maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.

The açai berry is extremely rich in anthoyanins — an antioxidant substance that is beneficial in combating free radicals. Everyone has heard the old saying "A glass of red wine daily is good for the heart." The anthocyanins contained in the grapes is the reasoning behind that statement, BUT the açai contains 33 times more anthocyanins than grapes.

Besides being considered one of the "richest foods in iron," the açai is also rich in fiber, adding to the healthful aspects of this amazing little berry.