It seems that Brazil is the place to watch. Its economy is thriving, its property market is booming and more and more tourists are choosing to experience its delights than ever before.
Brazil is also home to some of the most healthy and exotic foods available, no more so than the famous Amazon region where the trees of the rainforest simply groan under the weight of hundreds of different types of tropical fruit. Many of these have been discovered to offer significant health benefits and suddenly names such as pupunha, capuau and grumixama are tripping off peoples tongues in juice bars and cafs from North to South. It is the aai berry, though, that is unarguably responsible for the Brazilian health food revolution that is taking not just Brazil but also the US by storm.
The benefits of acai are not a new discovery amongst the Brazilians. It has long been used by those in the know for its nutritional value as well as to enhance physical strength and boost energy levels. The fruit itself is grown on the native Amazonian acai palm and comes in the form of small, purplish berries roughly the size of a blueberry.
Since its discovery by the rest of the world, acai has been hailed as the planets most-super superfood. It is one of the most nutrient-rich examples found anywhere, packed full of antioxidants, phytonutrients, anthocyanins, amino acids, essential omegas, fibers and protein. And recent research even shows that it potentially has the ability to fight cancer cells.
The most nutrient dense part of the berry is the skin and the pulp but in Brazil every part of the berry is used for different purposes, even the seed. Its juice and pulp are frequently used in juice blends, smoothies, sodas and other beverages. It has become one of the country’s most popular ice cream flavors and in recent years literally thousands of dedicated acai cafes have sprung up, serving acai na tigela ” literally acai in a bowl, served with honey and granola as a health food and energizer.
Acai is now being exported heavily as seeds or in juice, frozen fruit pulp or in dried and freeze-dried form.
The US and Europe are increasingly embracing the potential of aai. It is now available as a dietary supplement in capsule, pill and powder format for use by those wanting to boost their immune systems, mental focus, energy and digestive functions. Its anti-ageing qualities are also being celebrated, as well as its new-found reputation as the Brazilian Viagra!
So whether you are already a fan or you need convincing and want to try this superfood out for yourself, get down to your nearest juice bar or health food store for your dose of acai today. But take it from me, acai tastes way better on home turf, so why not book your flight to Brazil and give it a try?
This piece was written by Ginny Naish the Marketing Director of Property Dreams Brazil, a real estate consultancy based in Joao Pessoa, Paraiba. Property Dreams Brazil can provide consultancy services with regard to property investment,land acquisition, re-location and property marketing. Please visit Property Dreams Brazil for further information.
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