im-brue » ingredients

acai

admin — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:56:12 +0000

Acai (Ah-Sigh-EE)
A small, dark purple berry which is the fruit of a native South American palm tree from the genus Euterpe. Native to the tropical floodplains of Central and South America, acai berries grow on tall palm trees extending up to 25 feet high, which are climbed and harvested by hand. Acai has enjoyed a long history of popularity spanning thousands of years; from ancient Amazonian tribes using it medicinally, to modern Brazilian surf cultures prizing acai as an excellent energy food.

The Power of Acai
Nutritionally, acai is considered a true antioxidant powerhouse, and is loaded with healthy monosaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The berries are also a great source of vitamin C, and posses many other micronutrients including polyphenols and flavonoids.

blueberry

admin — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:55:32 +0000

Blueberry (Blue-Ber-Ry)
Originating from flowering plants in the genus Vaccinium, blueberry species native were originally native only to North America, however are now grown in a variety of geographical regions such as Australia, New Zealand, Europe and South American countries. The shrubs vary in size from 10cm to 4m tall and bear fruit usually from May through June, with the season peaking in July. Blueberries have been included in the superfruit category for its nutrient richness, antioxidant strength; boosted by emerging research documenting health benefits.

The Power of Blueberry
Blueberries have a diverse range of micronutrients with high levels of essential dietary mineral manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K and dietary fiber. In “wild” species (lowbush blueberries usually not planted or genetically manipulated), blueberries contain other antioxidant pigments and various phytocheimcals that may reduce risks of some diseases, including inflammation and different cancers.

mangosteen

admin — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:54:57 +0000

Mangosteen (Man-Go-Steen)
A dark reddish-purple fruit of southeastern Asia with a thick rind and juicy flesh with flavors akin to peach and pineapple. The Mangosteen fruit is born from an evergreen-type tree that requires ultra-tropical climate in order to grow, reaching heights from 20 to 80 feet high. The origins of the Mangosteen are unknown, but are currently found in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and Burma. Considered a superfruit for its nutrient richness and antioxidant strength, the mangosteen has been used in traditional medicine in Asia—ranging from powdered form to combat dysentery to ointment for eczema and other skin disorders.

The Power of Mangosteen

The rind and flesh of the Mangosteen have been found to contain an abundant amount of Xanthones (anti-oxidants), which laboratory studies have suggested to have anti-cancer effects. Researchers have isolated and tested two of most beneficial Xanthones (Alpha Mangostin and Gamma Mangostin) found in mangosteen and discovered that they have significant effect on cardiovascular health. Some of the mangosteen medicinal properties may be attributed to tannins in the rind, which have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and astringent properties that have been used for conditions such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and skin conditions.

pomegranate

admin — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:54:12 +0000

Pomegranate (pom-i-gran-it)
A chambered, many-seeded and fruit, approximately the size of a grapefruit; the pomegranate has a tough usually red rind that conceals a crown of white, spongy membrane housing red arils (seed casings). The red arils are usually consumed whole; however it is the juice which is the true nectar of the pomegranate. Usually, the pomegranate juice is moderate in taste with sour notes from the acidic tannins. Native to southwestern Asia, the pomegranate is widely cultivated in warm, dry regions of the world – most historically the Mediterranean. Some date cultivation of this fruit back to prehistoric times, and it has been used throughout the ages medicinally, mythologically, and as a valued culinary element.

The Power of Pomegranate
Though most of the pomegranate’s mythological roots (often seen as a symbol of fertility and prosperity) cannot be proven; it is the recent attention from scientific communities that unveiled the truth of the fruit’s health benefits. Pomegranate contains a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals, with especially notable amounts of vitamin C and potassium. It is also a powerful source of antioxidant, phytoestrogens (“dietary estrogens” that may have protective action against diverse health disorders), polyphenols (research indicates antioxidant characteristics with potential health benefits), and anti-inflammatory essential amino acids. Among the most important effects of this beneficial nutrient collection is the ability to inhibit free radicals (a biological component attributed to disease and aging). Remarkably, polyphenols are believed to help the body’s cells resist damage by free radicals, with many have been found to have anti-cancer activity in the lab. The Pomegranate juice provides about 16% of an adult’s daily vitamin C and is a good source of vitamin B5, and potassium.
But there’s more. Pomegranate’s contribution to cardiovascular health has also been widely celebrated. In preliminary laboratory research and human pilot studies, juice of the pomegranate was shown effective in reducing heart disease risk factors. Pomegranate juice has also been shown to reduce systolic blood pressure (inhibiting the serum angiotensin-converting enzyme), may inhibit viral infections, and can also have antibacterial effects against dental plaque.

goji

admin — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:53:07 +0000

Goji (GO-jee)
A common name for the small, red berry of the Lycium barbarum plant, also known as wolfberry. Gojis grow on a thorny perennial bush, and are indigenous to the difficult terrains of the Himalayan mountain range, China and Mongolia. Asian herbal medicine has used goji for several millenniums, but only recently have Western cultures “discovered” the power of this remarkable food. Often coined as “red diamonds” on the Asian market, the goji berry has long been regarded as one of the most nutrient-rich superfoods on the planet; promoting greater health, vitality, longevity, energy, and stamina. Western societies’ increased awareness of the goji berries potency has stimulated scientific research into the gojis’ potential health benefits. Indeed this special berry has a remarkable nutritional profile and is now among the most highly sought-after superfoods.

Goji Power
The goji berry offers an exceptional balance of daily macronutrients: containing carbohydrates, high-quality protein, healthy fat, and soluble fiber. The goji’s solid plant-based protein is packed with 18 amino acids, including all 8 essential amino acids, which is 10% of the fruits composition. Full of free-radical-devouring antioxidants used to support the immune system and promote longevity, the goji is also rich in vitamin A and C, and possess over 20 trace minerals and vitamins including zinc, iron, phosphorus, riboflavin (B2), vitamin E, and carotenoids which include beta-carotene. Per ounce goji’s contains more vitamin C than oranges, more beta carotene than carrots, and more iron than soybeans or spinach.