With over 900,000 instagram photos tagged under the hashtags #acai and #acaibowl, acai is one of the most trendy social media foods. But besides making a refreshing and aesthetically pleasing smoothie bowl, acai berries are full of natural health benefits. 

muesli, cereal
Emily Rembecki

In the United States, acai berries are most often found pureed into a smoothie or a smoothie bowl with several other fruits, so it's easy to overlook the individual powers of this superfood.

Antioxidant Power 

beer, ice, chocolate, cream
Caroline Heiland

Indigenous to the Amazon, the Acai berry is full of antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins. Their antioxidants prevent the oxidation of free radicals and cell destruction in the body.

The acai berry itself contains over 44% of fiber, which aids in digestion, controls blood sugar levels, and lowers cholesterol levels. 

Vitamins and Minerals

blueberry, sweet, strawberry, vegetable, berry
Julia Portnoff

Acai berries are full of vitamins, including Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, E and Vitamin K. They also contain many healthy minerals, including Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, and Manganese. All of these nutrients are able to slow down the aging process, improve blood circulation, and provide a natural energy boost. 

So, the next time you order that smoothie bowl just for the 'gram, know that you're doing something good for your body and mind, too.