Acai: Berry good for overall health

MANILA, Philippines - “We all know that once diagnosed with cancer, patients almost always feel dread, as if a death sentence has been given them … and it’s only a matter of time. But I am a doctor who is not only here to diagnose a disease, but also to give hope that for as long as one is willing, then half the battle is won,” begins Dr. Sonny Viloria, medical director and owner of the Biovitale Health Clinic and Symbios Holistic and Wellness Sanctuary.  

For the doctor who is into integrative medicine, giving up is not an option. He elaborates, “That’s why I include in my patient’s treatment other modalities such as diet, exercise, medicine, and  a megadose of the superfruit and superfood acai.  I cannot ignore and overlook the effect that this Brazilian berry has on my patients. Even as I prescribe the appropriate pharmacological medications and treatment modalities, their swift recovery from various ailments is something that’s almost remarkable. There is no side effect except for the patient’s much improved sense of well-being.” 

Studies show that not only does acai berry have one of the highest contents of antioxidants known to man, it is also a source of plant sterols, essential fatty acids, dietary fiber, minerals, and amino acids. Essential fatty acids, omegas 3, 6, and 9 help slow down the effects of aging and can lower bad fats like cholesterol in the blood.

“Organique Acai Berry is rich in antioxidants that fight and get rid of cell-damaging free radicals that cause premature aging and can make their way into your body through pollution, smoking, and chemicals found in our tap water and foods. Free radicals are said to eventually cause diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and are also linked to the growth of cancer, tumors, as well as leukemia and other blood-related diseases,” Viloria adds.

Scientists have classified the acai berry as one of the world’s number one superfoods. Dr. Viloria explains, “This is because the acai berry contains 10 times the antioxidants found in red grapes and blueberries. In my own search for the best or most effective health supplement to boost the health of my patients, I learned about the ORAC.  I also learned that the recommended daily ORAC level is between 3,000 and 5,000! But most Filipinos, who are busy and always on the go, and are now used to eating double portions of fast foods and instant noodles, are actually consuming less than 1,000 ORAC units a day!”

 The good doctor points out, “This is why I advise my patients ‘if you want foods with greater antioxidant properties, you look for foods with high ORAC levels.  The higher the ORAC number, the stronger the antioxidant properties of the substance. Fresh acai already has an amazing 5,500 ORAC score. Even more amazing is Organique Acai as it actually has an ORAC value of over 70,000 per 100 grams. Imagine acai as your powerful crusader against any illness or infection, helping the body regain its strength. For me, it’s an excellent beverage which I can make into a smoothie, sorbet, slush, or even top my green salad with for my overall health.”

Organique Acai Berry is now available at Mercury Drug. For more information, call 470-3580.