Acai: the essential winter immune shield!

We've got great news!

Ahhhhh, finally some good news for this second COVID winter. Combine that with the usual winter colds and flus and we're ready to go home to hibernate until spring.

But don't worry! We have a solution, maybe not a miracle cure, but definitely a way to lift your spirits and support your immune system!

We asked Julie Lioré, independent science writer, whether acai could help us fight winter challenges.

And here's her answer:

Preventing and supporting winter health with acai

As the days grow shorter, darker and colder, energy levels and mood tend to drop, weakening the immune system and leaving us more vulnerable to typical winter illnesses. Both body and mind are put to the test, and need extra support. Whether as a preventive approach, to avoid getting sick, or as a remedy during a viral infection, it is essential to fuel the body with enough vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Yet during this time of year, the availability of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables is often limited.

No need to worry. Acai, the little berry from the Amazon is packed nutrientsand is ideal for both preventing and supporting the body through winter illness. Harvested from August to December, the berries are immediately pulped and frozen, to preserve all their benefits. This means the fruit’s flesh is available year-round. Whether you're feeling well, tired, or sick, frozen açaí pulp—blended or combined with other fruits—is just as easy to use in recipes as it is delicious to enjoy. Its rich, chocolatey red berry flavor is, in itself, a natural mood booster. 

 

And that's a perfect timing, discover our frozen acai ! 

An amazing nutrient profile

Among other things, omega-3, -6 and -9 help improve immune function, which is the body's first of defense against invading pathogens or illness. The acai berry has an exceptionally high lipid (healthy fat) content, which is unusual for fruit, as most fruits contain little to no fat.  

 

Copper has proven anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. This trace element also boosts the immune system by promoting antibody production, that is to say that it promotes the development of antibodies, thus increasing resistance to microbial infections.
 It also supports the adrenal glands, which, when weakened, can lead to overall fatigue. Lastly, copper enhances the effects of vitamin C, which acts as an immune modulator, boosting macrophages and lymphocytes, critical players during viral infections. 

Acai's high fiber content is also a true asset for health at this time of year. While insoluble fiber is not absorbed by the body, it is fermentable and helps nourish the gut microbiota, a cornerstone of the immune system. A well-nourished microbiota supports a considerable number of bio-chemical processes, including better nutrient absorption, protection against pathogens (such as viruses and bacteria), effective fat storage regulation (and thus weight management), and even plays a significant role in emotional balance. 

What's more, the high antioxidant power of acai berries makes them powerful protectors and healers throughout the body, playing a major role in overall health.

The pulp of acai berries is therefore particularly recommended during cold seasons, to help you stay healthy by giving your body what it needs and your mood the boost it deserves to get through the winter.

Reassuring, isn't it? Don't wait - get winter-ready with açaí! 

Article written by Julie Lioré

Independent scientific editor