The Berry Diet

Acai is the berry of an Amazonian palm tree from Brazil, promoted as the ingredient in the "berry diet." It is known primarily for its antioxidant benefits, which exceed most other foods. Advocates believe the acai berry diet will enhance vitality, boost metabolism and support weight loss.

Identification

The acai fruit, or Euterpe oleraceae, is about the size of a blueberry with a large internal seed. Berries are harvested from the same trees that produce edible hearts of palm. The trees may reach heights in excess of 60 feet. The only edible parts of acai fruit are the outermost layers and the pulp.The berry is commonly used in juices, smoothies, frozen drinks and dietary supplements.

Claims

Promoters of the berry diet say that the acai berry has a combination of essential fatty acids, amino acids and phytosterols that work in unison to improve metabolism, enhance digestion and reduce appetite. Acai berries are also said to cleanse and detoxify the body, boost immunity, benefit cardiovascular health, enhance mental clarity, improve vision, reduce insomnia and decrease the aging process. Some of these claims have not been supported by scientific research and many of the possible benefits are speculations.

Anti-Oxidant Content

Antioxidants in the acai berry may help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer and can be beneficial to physically active dieters because they neutralize free radicals produced during exercise. A 2006 study from Arkansas examined the antioxidant capacity of the acai fruit and found the pulp to have exceptional antioxidant capabilities in vitro, as published in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry." Despite the benefits of antioxidants, unsubstantiated health claims have led consumers to believe that the acai berry can promote weight-loss. PR Newswire reported a 2010 survey of U.S. consumers familiar with acai and found most have misconceptions about the superfruit's health benefits and 25 percent believe acai juice helps with weight loss. In addition, 32 percent of consumers mistakenly select blueberries over acai berries for highest antioxidant content.

Proven Benefits

Texas AgriLife Research scientists have proven that juice and pulp of acai berries can be absorbed in the human body in the first research involving people, as published in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry." Lead investigator Dr. Susanne Talcott says that acai is naturally low in sugar and tastes like a mixture of chocolate and red wine. Initial studies examined the berry's activity against cancer cells but it was unclear if the body actually absorbed the antioxidant and nutritional components in pulp and juice.

Conclusions

The acai berry does have some nutritional benefits and by including other healthy foods, it could be part of a well balanced diet that gives you healthful antioxidant properties. If you choose to try the acai berry diet, find a reputable source of the product and use the supplement only as an addition to your weight loss program. As with any supplement, there may be side effects so consult your physician before making any changes to your diet.