Acai Berry & Cancer

Current research shows that huge levels of antioxidants are found in the acai berry. Using the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity score (ORAC) a method devised by the USDA, the acai berry scores ranked as high, if not higher, than the more commonly known antioxidants.

Estimations have revealed that globally 80-90 percent of the population does not consume anywhere near the recommended levels of antioxidants needed to fight free radicals. These are invasive molecules caused by pollutants such as pesticides and cigarette smoke.

Cell damage from free radicals is known to cause cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, atherosclerosis, arthritis and even adverse effects on DNA.

Nutritionists and scientists are excited about these new studies proving the acai berry to have unique nutritional benefits and healing properties. Although the acai berry is not proven to cure cancer the data indicates that it at least, because of the extraordinary antioxidant levels, may help fight it.

A University of Florida research study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, estimated that 86 percent of human cancer cells were destroyed by the acai berry.

Assistant Professor, Stephen Talcott reported, “A lot of claims are being made, but most of them haven’t been tested scientifically. We are just beginning to understand the complexity of the acai berry and its health-promoting effects.”

He indicated, “This was only a cell-culture model and we don’t want to give anyone false hope. We are encouraged by the findings, however. Compounds that show good activity against cancer cells in a model system are most likely to have beneficial effects in our bodies.” Further studies will continue on healthy human subjects to show the link between the acai berry and antioxidants.