The previously unknown benefits of acai berry fruit drinks and foods exploded a few months ago after the berry was introduced on American television for its anti-aging properties and being one of the top superfoods. Pronounced as "ah sigh e" it is harvested from palm trees native to Brazil and looks similar to a standard purple grape. Brazilians have recognized and used the acai berry for hundreds of years.

The Oprah show was probably the first mass exposure of acai to the world. It was highlighted by regular Oprah guest, and best selling author, Dr. Perricone, as one of the world's very top super foods. He went on to outline the great taste like chocolate and berries and explained that it had antioxidants, amino acids, and essential fatty acids that we all need.

Another favorite guest of Oprah's nicknamed Dr. Oz, was also quick to point our the importance of eating foods that are packed with antioxidants. During his talk, Dr. Oz did a great demo where he used an antioxidant rich lemon and sprinkled it on one side of a cut apple.

What happened was that the piece of apple with the lemon juice remained almost new in appearance while the half without the lemon juice became brown and shriveled. Dr. Oz showed how that is basically what happens inside the human body to our skin and organs. Acai and its antioxidants help to alleviate some of the damage done through aging.

Although he mentioned other super foods like grapes and blueberries, Dr. Oz made it clear that acai was a favorite on his list. He also mentioned that it can often have twice he number of antioxidants as blueberries. Whether it be the media attention, or the fact that it is very useful, acai products are now the rage and people are using it for improved overall health, better skin, and as an aid to staying healthy while losing weight.

Depending on where you live in the world, acai berries and their benefits, are obtained in different ways. Some countries have easy access to the actual fruit, while in other places, it is more common to use either a liquid drink or acai berry capsules. Each has its own benefit but some people prefer the capsules due to the strong taste of most manufactured acai beverages. Ultimately, it is simply a personal choice made by the consumer.