What is the difference between acai and acacia

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Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. What is acacia? Relieves pain and irritation Helps wound healing Promotes oral health Good source of fiber Reduces body fat Soothes coughs and sore throats Restricts blood loss Potential risks Takeaway Share on Pinterest.

Relieves pain and irritation. Helps wound healing. Promotes oral health. Good source of fiber. Reduces body fat. Soothes coughs and sore throats. Restricts blood loss. The fiber and heart-healthy fats in acai also support heart health. Several longitudinal studies have reported a significantly lower cardiovascular disease risk and all-cause mortality with high consumption of fiber.

Fiber intake also reduces LDL cholesterol. Fiber intake is not only associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, but also a slower progression of the disease in high-risk individuals. Anthocyanins have been observed to engage in anticarcinogenic activities, although the exact mechanisms are unknown. Laboratory studies using a variety of cancer cells have indicated that anthocyanins:. These functions have been observed in multiple animal and culture studies.

A small study of 25 patients with colorectal cancer found that a 7-day intake of 0. Results of a study published in suggest that consuming acai berry juice for 6 weeks did not improve the sprint performance of seven athletes. However, it was linked to an increase in plasma antioxidant activity, serum lipid profiles improved, and it appeared to help with exercise-induced muscle injury.

Although acai berries contain very little total protein, they do contain 19 amino acids, as well as several sterols, including campesterol, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol. The phytochemicals in acai berries include mainly anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. Acai berries contain more antioxidants than other commonly eaten berries. They also are high in fiber and heart-healthy fats.

The antioxidant effects of acai berries have largely been attributed to phenolic compounds. Antioxidants in the body are believed to help protect against various diseases as they can neutralize oxidative damage caused by environmental stressors, such as pollution. It should be noted that acai supplements are poorly regulated and may not contain the marketed ingredients or concentration strength.

Food sources of nutrients are always the best option. The NCCIH emphasizes that there is a lack of reliable evidence confirming the safety and effectiveness of acai products. It is best to speak to a health professional before making major changes to the diet and before taking any supplements. It is the total diet or overall eating pattern that is most important in disease prevention and achieving good health.

It is better to eat a diet with variety than to concentrate on individual foods as the key to good health. In mice, acai pulp has reduced the incidence of colon and bladder cancer 14 , However, a second study in mice found that it had no effect on stomach cancer Researchers have concluded that acai could have a role in treating cancer in the future, yet more research is needed, including in humans.

In animal and test-tube studies, acai has shown potential as an anti-cancer agent. More studies are needed to determine its effect in humans. The many plant compounds in acai could also protect your brain from damage as you age Several studies have shown this kind of protective effect in lab rats 19 , 20 , 21 , The antioxidants in acai counteract the damaging effects of inflammation and oxidation in brain cells, which can negatively affect memory and learning In one study, acai even helped improve memory in aging rats One of the ways in which the brain stays healthy is by cleaning up cells that are toxic or no longer working, a process known as autophagy.

It makes way for new nerves to form, enhancing communication between brain cells. As you age, this process works less efficiently. While the initial research is promising, studies on its effects on human health have been small and scarce.

For the most part, acai is a healthy fruit with few drawbacks. Make sure to watch out for added sugars. Although, if filtered, the juice may contain fewer antioxidants 7. The powder delivers the most concentrated amount of nutrients, giving you fiber and fat, as well as plant compounds.

Toppings may include sliced fruit or berries, toasted coconut flakes, nut butters, cocoa nibs or chia seeds. You can also make a bowl using acai powder. Blend it into your favorite smoothie recipe, then top with your favorite add-ins. They also deliver healthy fats and fiber, making them a generally healthy food.

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