Acai (ah-sigh-EE) berries are a grape-like fruit native to the rainforests of South America. They may have an antioxidant effect in people. Antioxidants can prevent or slow cell damage due to free radicals.
Free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells in the body, contributing to illness and the aging process.
Acai berries are available dried, frozen, as juice, as powder, and in other forms. People harvest them from acai palm trees. The fruits are a deep purple color.
Some people describe the taste of acai berries as a blend of chocolate and berries with a slight metallic aftertaste.
This article explores the possible health benefits of acai berries, their nutritional profile, and how to include more acai berries in the diet. It also discusses the possible health risks of consuming acai berries.
The
However, some research indicates that acai berries may have an antioxidant effect in people, which means they may help prevent or slow cell damage from free radicals.
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The authors also found that acai berries may have anti-inflammatory properties, which means they may help reduce inflammation. In addition to playing a role in the body’s immune response, inflammation may contribute to the development of some chronic conditions, such as atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes.
Another
The NCCIH highlights that no reliable peer-reviewed studies can support claims that acai berries alone promote rapid weight loss. However,
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According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 8 fluid ounces of fortified acai berry drink
A review of research from 2023 indicated that acai berries
People can purchase acai berries dried, frozen, as juice, as powder, in food products, and in tablet form.
A few tips for adding acai berries to the diet include:
Alternatively, a person may want to try these recipes that come from registered dietitians:
However, people need to note that acai supplements are poorly regulated and may not contain the marketed ingredients or concentration strength. Food sources of nutrients are always the best option.
The NCCIH emphasizes the
Scientists have not studied acai berries extensively. The health claims surrounding this fruit are relatively new, and more research is necessary to substantiate them.
According to the NCCIH, scientists
Some supplement companies have claimed acai berry supplements help with weight loss. However, the NCCIH highlights that no independent peer-reviewed studies support claims that taking these supplements alone helps with weight loss.
The NCCIH also highlights that while acai pulp appears to be safe for consumption in amounts that manufacturers commonly use in foods, unprocessed acai juice consumption has links to Chagas disease.
Additionally, there is little research into the safety of acai consumption during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
People need to speak with a healthcare professional if they want to make significant changes to their diet. A person’s total diet or overall eating pattern is most important in disease prevention and maintaining optimal health. It is better to eat a diet with variety than to concentrate on individual foods.
Acai berries are deep purple fruits that grow from acai palm trees. These trees are native to the rainforests of South America.
Research indicates that acai berries may have antioxidant, hypolipidemic, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may help reduce oxidative stress. However, research into the health effects of acai products on humans is limited.
People may add acai berries to their diet in various forms, such as juice, powder, or dried berries. A person can speak with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to their diet and taking dietary supplements.
Last medically reviewed on June 5, 2024
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