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Besides of being a perfect source of nutrition and healthy fatty acids, Acai contains a high
level of antioxidants which may help to increase energy levels and stamina. Up to date, only
freeze-dried Acai powder showed an extremely high antioxidant level of 1027 micromol TE/g
of any other food tested by ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) established by the USDA.
In a number of studies done including Dr. Schauss in 2006, the ORAC value for this freeze-dried
powder was significantly higher than when other methods of drying the fruit were tested.
For example, spray-dried Acai has only an ORAC value of 65. Interestingly, the study
done by Dr. Lichtenthaler found out that only 10% of Acai¡¦s high antioxidant effects
could be explained by its known antioxidants, such as anthocyanin. This suggests that there
are other unidentified antioxidants present in the Acai berry which contribute to this
high antioxidant activity. In 2006, a study performed at the University of Florida showed
that Acai fractions containing polyphenolics could reduce proliferation of leukemia cells
in a laboratory setting. Further researches need to be done and this was not intended
to conclude any findings to prevent leukemia in humans.
In addition, Acai contains a high level of dietary fiber, rich in amino acids. Its protein
content is comparable to an egg, and its plant protein is easily absorbed by the body. Acai
is also a great source of vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, D and E, calcium, iron and trace
minerals.