Super Foods and Fruits

Does it really matter where you buyAcai Berryproducts? Absolutely! Notall Acai products created equal! There so many factors that go into the processing of the Acai Berry, that customers should know what to look for before buying!

Given the sudden popularity of this purple gem, many companies are jumping on the band wagon to produce as many Acai products as they can. That means the consumer needs to do their homework to find a manufacturer that hasnt taken any shortcuts in their processing and ingredients. If we are not careful, we could end up with a product that has lost its active properties, is full of fillers or has unwanted chemicals.

Before you purchase Acai products,make sure the product lines up with these standards:

1) Certified Organic Ingredients. When using non-organic fruits, you could be exposed to pesticides and other chemicals. A legitimate company will produce a certificate to prove their product is Certified Organic. Non-organic antioxidant products can contain chemical pesticides, herbicides and other toxins.

2) Acai Must Be Processed Within 24 Hours. Safely transporting this little gem, often called The Crown Jewel of the Amazon, across the world is not an easy task! This highly potent berry starts losing its active properties within 24 hours of being picked. As you can imagine, for companies that care about producing a quality product, this is no simple feat.

3) Acai and Other Ingredients That Are Not Processed in China. Many products on the market today are processed in China, where they are known for using harsh chemicals and they do not have any regulations for pesticide use, nor do they have organic guidelines. Acai processing plants in China often use unregulated soy, fillers and/or chemicals in the extraction process.

4) Freeze-Dried and Not Spray Dried Acai. To preserve the berrys nutrients, Acai must be freeze-dried. Spray drying involves heating the berries at high temperatures, which destroys the active properties. In this process, they are also sprayed with a carrier such as maltodextrin to dry them out. When this occurs, a large portion of the resulting Acai powder is actually maltodextrin.

5) Acai Should Never Be Overheated. During normal pasteurization, high heat is involved. Any Acai juice product should only be flash-pasteurized, which does not harm the enzyme level of the berry and is FDA approved.

6) No Fillers Such as Soy or Maltodextrin in Processing. During the extraction of the pulp from the pit, fillers, chemicals and carriers should not be used. These items used in the manufacturing process remain a part of the end product, but are not required to be listed on the label because they are not considered to be an added ingredient.

7) No Fillers or Water Added to the Product. Adding fillers makes the Acai fluffier and bulks it up, so you are not getting as much Acai. Check the label for such fillers as soy, corn, maltodextrin, water and lots of other concentrated fruit juices. After all, when we buy Acai, we want Acai.

No Added Sugar, Artificial sweeteners, Fructose or Stimulants. Look to see that the Acai does not have added sugar. Sugar is not good for our immune systems, weight and it can cause inflammation. Also, some products may have added stimulants like caffeine or guarana.

9) No Chemical Preservatives. If we are seeking a nutritional product for our health, why would we want to consume chemicals along with it? For example, Sodium Benzoate appears in our soda and snack cakes, but why would we want it in our health foods? In 2006, the FDA re-opened their investigations into the use of Sodium Benzoate in soft drinks, because of the discovery of thebreakdown into Benzene that can occur when mixed with ascorbic acid (vitamin C).

10) ORAC Lab Testing Done on Actual Product. Make sure the companys reported ORAC (antioxidant) levels are based upon tests done on their actual Acai product and not just reports from Acai right off the tree. Just because Acai Berries have a high ORAC score when picked, does not mean it still does after the manufacturing.

As we can see, not all Acai products are created equal. In fact, a person will have a hard time finding Acai that can measure up to all 10 standards! So far, we have only found one Acai product line that passes all of these tests and that is Amazon Thunder!

Resources and Further Reading:

Amazon Acai Berry.net – All About the Acai Berry: www.AmazonAcaiBerry.net

FDA re-opens probe into benzene contamination of soft drinks – by Chris Mercer, 2/15/2006 www.foodnavigator-usa.com/news/ng.asp?n=65840-soft-drinks-fda-benzene

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Acai berries and acai berry juice products are some of latest supplements to enter the health food category as a superfood. Residents and natives of Brazil are very familiar with this berry and its products. Residents have been enjoying acai fruit juice beverages and bowls for some time. Once you have tried the juice you will probably find ways to add it to you favorite smoothie or add it to recipes. Acai freeze dried powder actually goes well in yogurt. The flavor is something to be experienced and it tastes like blueberries with a touch of chocolate and is not over powering.

The natives of the Amazon rain forest have been using acai berries for thousands of years as a dietary staple. These remarkable little purple berries look similar to blueberries or purple grapes and are harvested off of a palm that grows in swampy floodplains. These berries are one of the highest ORAC value super foods available. With all the buzz it is no wonder there is a shortage and it can be hard to find in local health food stores and prices are expected to increase due to availability.

People who can benefit from acai berry supplements or freeze dried powder are athletes and the health conscious or people dealing with various illnesses. Trainers are starting to realize the importance of such a superfood and many athletes and trainers are discovering and using acai berry products for energy and stamina.

Some of the health properties of acai are anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immune system. Some of the many uses and conditions that people are using these products for are, weight loss, cleansing and detoxing, high blood pressure, heart conditions, high cholesterol, inflammation, arthritis, allergies, eczema, psoriasis and other skin problems. Some of the health properties of acai are, weight loss, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immune system.

What makes these berries so special. They are loaded with protein and fiber and contain minerals such as phosphorus, iron, calcium and potassium. Also contains B1, B2, B3, C and E essential fatty acids Omega 6 and Omega 9 respectively Linoleic acid and Oleic acid which research indicates helps maintain normal cholesterol levels.

What is even more remarkable acai berries packs the largest antioxidant punch or ORAC value of any know superfood available including blueberries, mangostien or pomegranates. Antioxidants are known to help regulate cholesterol levels and help with vascular and cardiac function.

A high quality product source will be 100% pure USDA certified organic. Most will come in the following form, juice, puree, freeze dried powder or capsules. Some brands may call themselves an acai blend and the major ingredient listed may be acai but it you have 4 juices such as, grape, pineapple, apple and acia and the first 3 are 20% and the last is 40% then actually the product you are buying is only 40% acai berry juice always check when buying a blend if not sure write, email or call the company. The best berry juice or products will be 100% pure with no sugars added. Consider the freeze dried acai powder as you can mix it with juices and other food products such as yogurts and smoothies.

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A little known berry from the jungles of the Amazon may be the cure-all for many ailments. The amazon jungles stretch over more than 1 billion acres and includes a wealth of plants and fruits that may have medical benefits. The acai berry comes from the Amazon region, native only to Central and South America. Over the last two decades, this small purple berry has caused a sensation in the scientific and medical worlds. Learn about some of the medicinal and culinary uses of this little known miracle berry called the acai.

The acai berry grows on tall palms located in the rain forest. The bunches of dark purple fruits dangle like grapes on a vine until they are ready to be harvested. Each year, the acai berry is harvested only two times. Because the fruit begins to break down immediately upon harvesting it is nearly impossible to store and ship. Regions local to the Amazon may receive over night shipments when the fruit is picked but places like the United States and Canada never get a chance at the fresh fruits. Luckily the fruits are widely used in sports bars, nutritional supplements, desserts, beverages, and in other various forms.

Although the acai berry looks similar to a grape, it is generally much larger. The acai berry is about 1 inch around and most of the fruit is actually seed. Very little fruit is extracted from each berry because it has such a large seed. The taste of the acai is very unique and it is nothing like a grape, but more like a berry. The acai has a very identifiable rich taste, kind of like a mix of dark berries. In the native countries the berries may be served as a drink or as a custard/pudding like dish. Unfortunately, the acai palm has not been successfully introduced to the rest of the world as it prefers a specific climate.

Not only does the acai taste good, but it may be good for your health! Recent studies of the acai berry has indicated it may be the solution to a number of health and aging related problems. The acai berry is high in healthy fats, rich in protein, and is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. In the Amazon region, the acai berry is one of the most nutritious foods available and is a large part of the natives diet. In Central and South America the acai berry has been used to cure infection, boost energy, calm inflammation, and to boost immune health among many uses.

The acai berry may also be able to help control blood sugar, cholesterol, arthritis, and prostate problems. Because acai acts similar to an antibiotic it may also help the body heal, rid it self of infection and/or disease, and could even help with weight loss. Juices and health drinks made with the acai berry have recently been introduced to the United States. When traditional medicine and alternatives fail, those suffering from a range of ailments are now trying acai juice and achieving real results. According to Sound Concepts (http://acaitools.soundconcept s.com) it has been reported that acai juice has helped reduce and/or eliminate fatigue, arthritis, rare disease, and has increased energy, range of motion, and flexibility for those people drinking the juice daily.

The acai berry has properties so wonderful it has been discussed on shows airing on CBS, NBC, and ABC. Because the acai berry is relatively new to the United States, few studies of the actual benefits have been conducted. But, there are plenty of studies indicating the acai berry is one of the best sources for complete nutrition. The acai berry may also help lower bad cholesterol levels, help curb insomnia, promote immune health, and boost libido.

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Sun Chlorella
Chlorella, Chlorella Pyrenoidosa

Chlorella (Chlorella pyrenoidosa) is a natural whole food derived from a fresh water-grown plant, with amazing health-enhancing benefits. It is a genus of single-celled green algae, belonging to the phylum Chlorophyta. Chlorella”s name comes from “chlor” which means green in Greek, and “ella” which means a small thing in Latin.
Sun Chlorella is a true survivor. A recent study shows that Chlorella has been on earth since at least 540 million years ago, and is the first known form of eukaryotic organism (true nucleus plant). Chlorella contains the highest percentage of natural chlorophyll and provides vital nutrients such as potassium, all of the B-vitamins, magnesium, zinc and iron, 18 vital amino acids, and beta carotene.
Chlorella is also called a most powerful weapons against cancer, its a unicellular, green algae. This tiny algae packs a powerful punch. Chlorella is truly one of nature’s great gifts, providing essential vitamins and nutrients as well as promoting the healthy function of nearly all the body’s systems.

Liver Health:
Some Asian and other studies have shown that Sun Chlorella stimulates a protective effect on the liver, as shown by its resistance to damage by toxins such as ethionine. In one German study, the liver was protected from the kind of damage caused by malnutrition. Chlorella lowers blood cholesterol and triglycerides, the levels of which are associated with liver metabolism as well as fat intake. We can see how the protective and cleansing effects of chlorella on the liver support the natural defenses of the body.

Clean Bloodstream:
A clean bloodstream, with an abundance of red blood cells to carry oxygen, is necessary to a strong natural defense system. Chlorella”s cleansing action on the bowel and other elimination channels, as well as its protection of the liver, helps keep the blood clean.

Blood Sugar Balancing:
Experiments have shown that chlorella tends to normalize blood sugar in cases of hypoglycemia while numerous personal testimonies show that it also helps take care of diabetes. In hypoglycemia, blood sugar is too low, while in diabetes, blood sugar is too high. Proper levels of blood sugar are necessary for normal brain function, heart function and energy metabolism, all of which are crucial in sustaining good health and preventing disease. The liver and pancreas are involved in the regulation of blood sugar, particularly the Islands of Langerhans in the pancreas. So, we find that Chlorella supports and balances pancreatic functions as well as the other organs we have discussed.

Blood Pressure:
For many years now, Sun Chlorella has been known to normalize blood pressure in many documented cases, High blood pressure is one of the major risk factors in heart attack and stroke, which account for more fatalities in the US than any other disease.

A renowned herbalist Michael Tierra L.Ac, O.M.D said in their book:
I recommend Chlorella to all cancer patients regardless of any other green drink they might use. Chlorella is a small, one-celled algae containing a nucleus and a large amount of chlorophyll. Its protein content is approximately 58% with the balance made up of carbohydrates, all the B Vitamins, Vitamin C and E, amino acids and valuable trace minerals. It has more B12 than liver and a substantial amount of beta-carotene. Because it has a strong cell wall, it requires processing in order to make all of its nutrients available. It is virtually a complete food in itself. It acts as both a powerful nutrient and a detoxifying food.
Treating Cancer With Herbs, page 361.

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