Cool Down with Acai
Tuesday, August 4th, 2009
Acai berries are available in the form of juice, pulp or capsules since the plump berries spoil too quickly for wide distribution.
The heat is finally on this summer, and the perfect, healthy way to cool off is with a cold, thick, creamy fruit smoothie. Myong blends some of the best smoothies in Westchester at The APOGEE Café. They’re made with your choice of all fresh seasonal fruits added to a soy milk and banana base, but more and more members have also been requesting APOGEE’s special smoothies made with Acai, an exotic ingredient that’s received a lot of media buzz recently.
Acai (pronounced ah-sigh-ee), a small purple berry native to the Brazilian rainforest has been dubbed the new “super fruit.” With an unusually high concentration of antioxidants and other nutrients such as omega fats, amino acids, calcium, iron and replenishing electrolytes, acai has the potential to boost the immune system, fight aging, prevent cancer, lower cholesterol and provide a caffeine-free boost of energy. There is even some evidence that it can aid in weight loss. And it delivers all this with a berry-with-a-hint-of-chocolate flavor.
Too good to be true? While scientific research to support these claims is still in the early stages, the personal testimonials are overwhelmingly positive. According to Myong, “More and more of our customers are telling me how much better it makes them feel—especially those who make acai a part of their daily diet.”
If you’re looking to stock up, the APOGEE café sells MonaVie Active—acai juice enhanced with plant-derived glucosamine, which promotes healthy joints. Or, treat yourself to a super healthy acai smoothie before or after your workout. But, be forewarned—it’s deliciously habit-forming.
