{Bite: The Health Benefits of the Acai Bowl}

ACAI BOWLS are the new healthy trend and I can’t get enough of this tart, not-to-sweet treat. I love my bowl with sliced fruit, gluten-free granola, a little peanut butter, and a few sprinkles of chia seeds, but there is a variation for everyone. What is Acai {ah-sigh-ee} you ask? Acai is a very special small purple superfruit from the Amazon. It promotes a healthy heart and healthy weight and is packed full of antioxidants, omega-3s and amino acids.

Some of the amazing health benefits of Acai are:

1. Aids in Weight Loss: Known by nutritionists as a super-food, acai may help us not only lose weight, but maintain a healthy weight. One interesting study from the National Institutes of Aging found that pulp from the acai berry had the ability to reduce the negative effects of a high-fat diet in laboratory studies on flies.

2. Heart Health: Similar to red wine, research shows that acai berries are extremely high in anthocyanins, a form of plant antioxidant associated with the ability to lower cholesterol levels in the blood stream. They are also rich in plant sterols that provide cardio-protective benefits to our cells. It does this by preventing blood clots, improving overall blood circulation, and relaxing the blood vessels.

3. Helps with Digestive Upset: Taking acai may also aid in keeping our digestive system clean and in optimal function. The berries have powerful detoxification capacities in the human body and is a well-known traditional source of dietary fiber.

4. Boost in Energy: Due its overall health benefits, taking acai extract can lead to an increased overall level of energy and stamina, and may aid to combat fatigue and exhaustion.

5. Better Sex: This famous red berry has also been linked to overall increased blood circulation in the human body, a phenomenon that may contribute to a boost in sex drive, especially for men.

Directions:

- 1 packet of frozen Sambazon Acai Pack (order online or find it in the frozen fruit section at your local health food store)

- 1 banana OR 1/2 cup of frozen fruit like mango or strawberries

- 1/2 cup 100% pure apple juice

- Granola (I used Udi's Gluten Free Granola)

- 2 tablespoons of chia seeds*

- 1 tablespoon of peanut butter

Blend the frozen acai pack, banana, and apple juice in a high speed blender until smooth. Add more apple juice as needed but remember you want it to be really thick like ice cream, not soupy!

Pour blended mixture into a bowl and top with granola, sliced fruit of choice, peanut butter, chia seeds, and even drizzle a little bit of fresh local honey.

Enjoy! And.....you're welcome.

*Chia seeds absorbs up to 12 times its own weight and expands to curb your appetite, so adding just an ounce or so to your diet can reduce caloric intake and help lower the energy density (or calories) of foods, plus double the amount of fiber you receive. One ounce of chia seeds (about 2 tablespoons) contains 139 calories, 4 grams of protein, 9 grams fat, 12 grams carbohydrates and 11 grams of fiber, plus vitamins and minerals.