Freezing temperatures, cold winds and load shedding all create the perfect conditions in which colds and flu flourish. To fight them off you need to boost your immune system by exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet rich in Vitamin C and other nutrients. Most berries including blueberries, raspberries and Goji berries are known for their high Vitamin C and antioxidant content but there’s one berry that stands head and shoulders above the rest. This is the Açaí (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) berry, fruit of the Açaí palm found in protected forests in Brazil.

Açaí achieved its superfood status because not only does it contain Vitamin C to help you fight off winter ailments, it’s packed with Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 and E. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s full of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc and copper. Its deep purple colour is an indication of its high level of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help fight cell-damaging free radicals in the body. In fact, Açaí has twice the number of antioxidants of blueberries and is also rich in Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids which promote both heart and brain health.

As the berries deteriorate within 24 hours of being harvested, they are freeze dried to preserve the vitamins and nutrients and then ground into an easy-to-absorb powder. “When buying Açaí powder, first check the ingredients to make sure that it’s 100% pure and not bulked up with fillers,” advises Leanne Rohrs, founder of health supplement specialists Be Bright.

Leanne recommends taking a teaspoon to a tablespoon a day to get the best results. “Açaí powder, which tastes a bit like unsweetened dark chocolate, is low in natural sugar but high in fibre which is great for digestive health. And it can be used in conjunction with keto, paleo and vegan diets,” she adds. “Mix it with water to get your daily shot, alternatively it great in smoothies, shakes, yoghurt and juices.” You can also sprinkle it over granola and fruit and even ice cream. This way it’s easy to get children, who often don’t want to eat what’s good for them, to take it regularly.

Açaí powder is an excellent supplement for all ages. Aside from its immune boosting qualities, it’s believed to slow down the effects of ageing as the antioxidants improve the look and feel of your skin. Its regular use also promotes healthy hair and nails, increases energy levels and assists in reducing inflammation of the joints. In fact, it has just about everything you and your family need to stay healthy this winter.

Strawberry Açaí smoothie bowl recipes:

Option 1

• 1 or 2 frozen bananas
• 1 cup of strawberries (frozen or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• Be Bright Açaí Powder
• ½ cup of almond or oat milk

Top with almonds, coconut shavings, goji berries and muesli for a go-to breakfast option that will boost your immunity.

Option 2

• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup of frozen mixed berries
• 1 cup of your favourite milk (oat, almond etc)
• ½ teaspoon of honey
• Your dose of Be Bright Açaí Powder

Once you have blended, add oats or muesli for crunch and top with almond/macadamia nut butter and blueberries and enjoy!

DISCLAIMER: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The product mentioned is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat or cure any form of disease or illness. Seek advice from a health care practitioner if you have any medical conditions. Discontinue use should any adverse reactions occur.