Inflammation is at the basis of age-related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disease, and wrinkled, sagging skin. The wrong foods—such as sugar, processed foods, pasta, breads, pastry, and baked goods—can increase levels of the pro-inflammatory peptides.
The açai fruit contains a flavonoid called Velutin, which is a potent anti-inflammatory agent.
Açaí pulp is rich in flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Velutin, a unique flavone found in açaí pulp, has been found to have a superior inhibitory effect in the vascular inflammation that underlies atherosclerosis. Recent studies have shown that some flavonoids can help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In a study, Velutin was found to be the most potent among all flavones in reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 in peripheral macrophages and mice peritoneal macrophages. See, Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry 23 (2012) 1184-1191 (Available at ScienceDirect.com)
Açaí is also rich in Omega-9 fatty acids.
Monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid, are found in a variety of foods, including olive oil, açaí fruit, peanuts, and avocados. Omega-9 is not an essential fatty acid, which means that the human body cannot produce it like it can produce Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. The body uses Omega-9 to reduce inflammation, and atherosclerosis, balance blood sugar, and improve the functioning of the immune system.
Açaí is a synergy of monounsaturated (healthy) fats, dietary fiber, and phytosterols that help promote cardiovascular and digestive health. The fatty acid content in açaí is similar to that of olive oil and is rich in monounsaturated oleic acid. Oleic acid is important for several reasons. It helps omega-3 fish oils penetrate the cell membrane, making cell membranes more supple. By keeping the cell membrane supple, all hormones, neurotransmitters, and insulin receptors function more efficiently. This is particularly important because high insulin levels create an inflammatory state, and inflammation causes aging.
Adding açaí to your diet is easy. Simply add one bar (100g) to your daily smoothie.