Acai berries are grape-like fruits produced from acai palm trees, which originate in the rainforests of South America, according to the MayoClinic.com. These berries may help improve arthritis, cancer, high cholesterol, and impotence. They also provide a healthy amount of antioxidants, fiber and healthy fats. Acai berries can be consumed raw, in tablet form, mixed in beverages or combined with food products. While complications are rare, side-effects can occur in people who consume excess amounts of the berries or those who have an underlying condition.
Loss of Appetite
A common complication associated with acai berries is a loss of appetite, according to the website Science Daily. These berries are natural stimulants that promote weight loss by causing a loss of appetite and increasing metabolism. Losing weight may be desirable for some people, but for people who do not want or need to lose weight, those who have a high metabolism or those who have a rigorous exercise routine, acai berries can trigger an undesirable loss of weight that results in an unhealthy body weight.
Allergic Reactions
People who are hypersensitive to acai berries may experience a mild to moderate allergic reaction after consumption, according to the website PureAcaiBerrySupplements.com. There appears to be a link between acai berries and allergies, so people who have undetermined food allergies or pollen allergies should avoid eating acai berries. According to Medline Plus, an allergic reaction can consist of hives, itchy skin, nasal congestion, rashes, watery and red eyes, abdominal cramps, chest tightness, breathing and swallowing difficulties, vomiting and facial swelling.
Gastrointestinal Problems
A common complication associated with acai berries is gastrointestinal problems. According to the website NPI Center, acai berries have a high fiber content accounting for approximately 35 percent of the fruit's content. The fiber acts like a natural laxative, pushing toxins and waste out of the body, which sometimes results in mild diarrhea. In addition, people who consume large amounts of acai berries in smoothies, juices, shakes, energy drinks or foods may experience gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, diarrhea and/or vomiting, according to the website Love to Know. Acai berries are often mixed with other ingredients when distributed in liquid or food form, which may trigger an upset stomach in people who have an allergy to one or more of the main ingredients.
References
- Medline Plus: Allergic Reactions
- MayoClinic.com: What Are Acai Berries and What Are Their Possible Health Benefits?
- PureAcaiBerrySupplements.com: Are There Any Acai Berry Side Effects?
- Love To Know: Acai Berry Cleanse
- Science Daily: Brazilian Acai Berry Antioxidants Absorbed By Human Body, Research Shows
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