University of Florida researchers conducted laboratory studies that show extracts from acai, a Brazilian berry, contain antioxidants that can destroy cultured human cancer cells. “Acai berries are already considered one of the richest fruit sources of antioxidants. This study was an important step toward learning what people may gain from using beverages, dietary supplements or other products made with the berries,” stated Talcott, an assistant professor with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. According to the UF researchers, other fruits including grapes, guavas and mangoes, contain antioxidants known to kill cancer cells.

Six different chemical extracts were made from acai fruit pulp. Four of the extracts were shown to kill significant numbers of leukemia cells. Depending on the extract and concentration, anywhere from about 35 percent to 86 percent of the cells died. Researchers in this study caution this does not mean that acai berries will cure leukemia, only that some of the extract compounds showed favorable results in laboratory tests. Another study is underway to research the effects of acai’s antioxidant abilities on healthy human subjects. If you've not heard about the acai berry before -- you are not alone. But, as this berry gains more media attention for its potent cancer prevention properties, it's destined to become a popular addition to the diet. Some of the celebrity fans of the acai berry include Oprah, Andre Agassi and Sting.