Acai berries are considered a "superfood" because they are very nutrient dense, containing healthy antioxidants, amino acids, essential fatty acids and fiber. In fact, acai is one of the most potent antioxidant fruits on the ORAC scale. Many people claims acai helps to increase energy, flush out toxins, lose weight and even improve sex life. Like other fruits, acai does not have many side effects. However, users may experience COX enzyme inhibition, increased regularity, adverse detoxification effects and/or pollen allergies.
COX Inhibitor Effects
The essential fatty acids and antioxidants found in acai are potent, natural anti-inflammatory compounds. COX-1 and COX-2 are enzyme factors that can cause inflammation in the body. As an inhibitor of these enzymes, acai berries can help to reduce inflammation. According to the AARP, those using COX inhibiting or NSAIDs drugs should consult with their doctor before taking acai. It is believed that the duplication of this effect could lead to adverse reactions, though more research is needed to know for sure.
Increased Regularity
Acai helps to cleanse toxins from the body in a couple of different ways. At the cellular level, the anthocyanin antioxidants in acai help to neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells. Acai berries help cells to eliminate these toxins from the body. In the digestive system, the high fiber content of acai berries helps to clean the intestines and colon. Both of these factors can increase elimination, causing more frequent bowel movements. Regularity is a sign of good health; however, high-fiber foods such as acai can cause gastrointestinal distress, if taken in large amounts.
Detoxification
Detoxifying the body can have other side effects, besides increase regularity. Acai's potent antioxidants help to purge toxins, which can be stored in various places in the body. When toxins are eliminated, they can cause what some refer to as a "healing crisis." For example, the process of eliminating toxins can cause similar side effects to ingesting the toxin itself. Life Extension Specialist Paul C. Bragg explains that detoxifying can cause temporary headaches, fatigue, body aches, and/or gastrointestinal discomfort. If symptoms persist, consult with your doctor.
Pollen Allergies
A rare and minor side affect associated with acai is allergic reaction to pollen. Some acai users have reported aggravation of allergy symptoms. If you are severely allergic to pollen, make sure to start slowly, using a small amount of acai to gauge your tolerance. Symptoms are generally mild, but consult with your doctor if an allergic reaction persists.
References
- Acai.org
- Acai Berry Site
- The Miracle of Fasting, Paul C. Bragg, Health Science, 2009
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