Food Facts Friday: Acai Berries
When the weather starts to get warmer and the sun is out, cooling down with a refreshing smoothie or smoothie bowl can hit the spot. Acai smoothie bowls have become quite popular. But what are acai berries all about?
The acai berry comes from the acai palm tree that grows in Central and South America. Acai berries are similar in nutrient content to other berries like, strawberries, raspberries and cranberries. Acai berries are known for their antioxidants, which are compounds that can help protect the body from disease. Anthocyanins, antioxidants that can help with memory and inflammation, are found in acai berries.
There are different forms of acai berries. Acai powder or frozen puree are the most popular forms. Many people enjoy acai in their smoothies and smoothie bowls for a tart surprise!
Acai Berries Nutrition Facts
Acai Berry Powder– 3 gm teaspoon
- Calories 20
- Carbohydrates 1 gm
- Potassium 60 mg
- Calcium 20 mg
- Fiber 1 gm
- Fat 1.5 gm
- Protein 0 mg
- Calcium 20 mg
Acai Berry Frozen Packs– 100 gm (1 pack)
- Calories 70
- Potassium 121 mg
- Calcium 23 mg
- Fiber 3 gm
- Fat 3 gm
- Protein 1 gm
- Calcium 6 mg
Acai Berries and a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Acai berries can be included in a kidney-friendly diet, however be mindful when it comes to potassium. One pack of frozen unsweetened acai berries contains 121 mg of potassium, which can add up quickly if combining with additional fruits like bananas, mangoes or papaya. When making a fruit smoothie or smoothie bowl, include low potassium fruits like apples, pineapple and berries if you are on a low potassium diet.
Check out DaVita’s refreshing Acai Berry Smoothie Bowl recipe or try adding acai berry puree to one of the healthy smoothie options below.
Healthy Smoothie Recipes
- Acai Berry Smoothie Bowl
- Blueberry Blast Smoothie
- Mixed Berry Protein Smoothie
- Peach High Protein Fruit Smoothie
References
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/acai-berries-and-acai-berry-juice-what-are-the-health-benefits. Accessed February 17 2020.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antioxidant. Accessed February 17, 2020.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/305576#nutrition. Accessed February 17, 2020.
- https://www.sambazon.com/catalog/product/view/id/89/s/pure-unsweetened-superfruit-pack/category/6/. Accessed February 17, 2020.
Additional Kidney Diet Resources
Visit DaVita.com and explore these diet and nutrition resources:
DaVita Kidney-Friendly recipes
Kidney Smart® Virtual Classes taught by kidney experts in your area
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Consult your physician and dietitian regarding your specific diagnosis, treatment, diet and health questions.
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