by admiller

Created on: May 16, 2009   Last Updated: April 05, 2011

Acai, pronounced ah-sigh-ee, is the newest trend for health food enthusiasts. Rachael Ray and Oprah have featured it on their shows. Dr. Nicholas Perricone, a dermatologist known for his anti-aging techniques, listed the acai berry as the number one super food. Do a quick Internet search on the popular fruit and you will find that it can cure cancer, stop aging, and prevent acne. It's time to separate fact from fiction on the reported health benefits of the acai berry.

What is acai?

The acai berry is a South American fruit. Individual berries are two centimeters in diameter and grow in bunches on acai palm trees in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest. The berry has a deep purple color and is related to blueberries and cranberries. It has a blended berry flavor with a subtle chocolate aftertaste. Acai is highly perishable and begins to lose its potency soon after being harvested. It is made widely available through the process of flash freeze drying.

Does science support acai as a wonder fruit?

Current research on the acai berry is somewhat limited. A Texas A&M study showed the berry to have very high antioxidant levels. There has not been enough research on the berry's effectiveness in treating various health conditions or it's effectiveness as a weight loss supplement. A University of Florida study did show powerful cancer fighting properties, but the study was limited to cultured cancer cells in a test tube. Destroying cancer in test tubes is very different from eliminating cancer in the human body. More research is needed before the acai berry can be labeled a miracle food.

Even with limited research, it is clear that the acai berry is a nutritional powerhouse. It has high levels of fiber, fatty acids, oleic acid, beta-sitosterol, and anthocyanidins which suggest tremendous potential for cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging benefits. Fruits should be a part of any healthy lifestyle or weight loss plan. Is there something unique about acai that can boost weight loss faster or prevent a litany of diseases? Possibly, but research is inconclusive at this point. Your best bet is to eat healthy and enjoy a diet rich in a variety of fruits.

Who should use acai?

The known nutritional components of the acai berry make it a healthy choice for a variety of reasons. Acai berries are a good source of antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Consider using the berry if you fall into one of the 8 categories listed below.

1. People with high cholesterol.

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