Have you heard about the amazing acai berry? It is showing up in supplements, smoothie mixes and juices and being touted as a “superfood” said to help prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, aging and even promote weight loss. Is it worth the hype (and price)? Are acai berries better than plain old blueberries?

They both contain a group of phytochemicals called anthocyanins. Plants contain various phytochemicals that help the plant fight disease, fungal infections and free radical damage. They help at the cellular level. So, we benefit from these protective factors when we consume the plants. The phytochemicals such as anthocyanins improve our overall health.

Have you ever wondered why blueberries are blue and broccoli is green? Maybe not, but the interesting thing is these phytochemicals not only benefit the plant, but they also give the plant their characteristics. Blueberries and acai berries obtain their gorgeous coloring from anthocyanins.

When you consume purple plants, the anthyocyanins have several benefits to your body. They contain a large amount of antioxidants which fight free radicals and repair free radical damage at the cellular level. We obtain free radicals from the environment via chemicals, industrial pollution, car exhaust and UV rays amongst others. Free radicals are also produced during digestion. Foods high in sugar, chemicals and fat contribute a large amount of free radicals. These free radicals contribute to overall poor health and aging.

You will also find anti-inflammatory benefits in anthocyanins. Systemic inflammation contributes to many diseases including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, weight gain and premature aging. Our Western diets high in animal protein and refined carbohydrates can cause systemic inflammation.

So, what do we make of this information. Both acai berries and blueberries contain anthocyanins, so why are blueberries so underrated compared to acai berries?

Though blueberries are very good for you, acai berries have extremely high Oxygen Radical Absorption Capabilities (ORAC). This score measures how much they fight free radical damage. Blueberries score 2400 and acai berries score 5500. As well, acai berries contain a variety of essential amino acids that is nearly perfect.

However, you will not find acai berries in the produce department like blueberries. They only grow in the Amazon and we have yet to figure out how to supply these gorgeous berries for regular consumption. You will have to suffice for supplements, extracts or powders. The juices may contain sugar or corn syrup and low amounts of actual acai berry.

Ultimately, it is best to take in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to benefit from a variety of beneficial phytochemicals. They work synergistically in the body to promote overall good health. An acai berry supplement may also be a great idea to add to a healthy diet, especially during the winter months when fresh produce is not as plentiful.

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