Brazil is suddenly the word on everyones lips. Its the place to live, the place to invest. Home to one of the worlds best climates, it boasts the second greenest city on the globe (Joao Pessoa) and the second-cleanest air, after Antarctica.

Brazil is also home to some of the most healthy and exotic foods available, no more so than the famous Amazon region where the trees of the rainforest simply groan under the weight of hundreds of different types of tropical fruit. Many of these have been discovered to offer significant health benefits and suddenly names such as pupunha, capuau and grumixama are tripping off peoples tongues in juice bars and cafs from North to South. It is the aai berry, though, that is unarguably responsible for the Brazilian health food revolution that is taking not just Brazil but also the US by storm.

The benefits of acai are not a new discovery amongst the Brazilians. It has long been used by those in the know for its nutritional value as well as to enhance physical strength and boost energy levels. The fruit itself is grown on the native Amazonian acai palm and comes in the form of small, purplish berries roughly the size of a blueberry.

Acai has now been discovered to be one of the most nutrient-rich and potent superfoods on the planet. It is simply loaded with antioxidants, phytonutrients, anthocyanins, amino acids, essential omegas, fibers and protein. Following discoveries during controlled laboratory tests, recent studies from the University of Florida indicate that aai may even fight cancer cells.

Acais most common incarnation is in juice blends, smoothies and other drinks, made using the nutrient-rich berry pulp. It has also become a highly-popular ice cream flavour. It is so popular that in recent years thousands of dedicated aai ice cream parlours have opened up across the country. Acai na tigela (acai in a bowl) is a popular snack at any time of day, comprising a bowl of acai-based ice cream swathed in fresh fruits, honey and granola and often accompanied by other tropical flavours such as capuau for an extra-special energy kick.

Acai deteriorates rapidly after harvest, however it lends itself very effectively to a number of means of preservation and is exported as seeds or in juice, frozen fruit pulp, dried and freeze dried formats.

Acai s reputation is spreading. It is now a staple on the shelves of health food stores across the US and Europe. It is available as a dietary supplement in capsule, pill and powder form for those wishing to benefit from its anti-ageing qualities and positive effects on the immune system, mental focus and digestion. Its ability to boost energy levels has even led to it being hailed as the new Brazilian Viagra.

So whether you are already a fan or you need convincing and want to try this superfood out for yourself, get down to your nearest juice bar or health food store for your dose of acai today. But take it from me, acai tastes way better on home turf, so why not book your flight to Brazil and give it a try?

This article was written by Ginny Naish the Marketing Director of Property Dreams Brazil, a Brazilian real estate consultancy based in Joao Pessoa, Paraiba. Property Dreams Brazil can provide consultancy services with regard to investment property,land acquisition, re-location and property marketing. Please visit Property Dreams Brazil for more information.

categories: health,travel,tourism,acai,brazil,property,joao pessoa,property investment,rio 2016