Acai berry is a widely used weight loss supplement that originated in Brazil. As a dietary supplement, acai is available as a beverage, powder, capsule and tablet. The active ingredient in these products, acai itself, appears to have antioxidant properties that may help to decrease the development of certain kinds of cancer. In addition, acai berry is used in Brazil as a treatment for problems with digestion and some skin conditions. Aside from the potential health benefits, acai is also used to help people lose weight while maintaining high energy levels. When combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity, an acai berry supplement can help you lose weight fast.
Step 1
Choose an acai berry supplement in a form that will suit your needs and preferences. Acai is available in liquid and powder forms that can be incorporated into foods, and in capsules and tablets that can easily be carried with you to work. Consider purchasing two of the same acai berry supplement so that you can leave one at work for your midday dosage. Read the label on the product you choose for proper storage. In most cases, you won't need to refrigerate acai capsules, tablets or powder, but juice may need refrigeration.
Step 2
Take your first dose of acai berry supplement with breakfast. According to the University of Florida, breakfast is one of the most important meals for everyone, particularly dieters. Unfortunately, breakfast is also the meal that is most often omitted from the diet. Although this is often done in an effort to lose weight, the effect is quite the opposite. Your body, in response to perceived starvation, will slow your metabolism and cause calories to be stored as fat more efficiently. Eating breakfast prevents this from happening and kick starts your metabolism. Breakfast that includes an acai berry supplement can provide essential nutrients and energy for the first part of your day.
Step 3
Take your midday dose of acai berry, if recommended by the manufacturer, along with a healthy lunch. Lunch should consist of fresh fruit, lightly cooked vegetables or salad and a lean protein such as white meat poultry or cottage cheese. This meal provides ample amounts of fiber but without a lot of calories or fat, unlike fast or convenience foods. Put aside 20 minutes for a brisk walk after lunch. Regular physical activity is important for losing weight and helps to wake you up and recharge for the rest of your day.
Step 4
Drink at least 64 oz. of water every day. If you are using a powdered or juice acai berry supplement, add it to your water or take your capsules or tablets with at least 8 oz. of water. According to the Hall Health Primary Care Center, water is responsible for nearly all of your body's processes including digestion and metabolism. Unfortunately, many people unknowingly function with mild to moderate chronic dehydration. While seemingly benign, chronic dehydration can cause weakness, fatigue and constipation. Water is especially important when you are eating a healthy diet that contains fiber, which requires water in order to move foods along the digestive tract.
Step 5
Take your acai berry supplement 30 minutes before eating a meal, snack or dessert. Dietician Katherine Zeratsky of the Mayo Clinic explains that acai is rich in fiber, nutrients and also a small amount of fat. The combination of fiber, fat and the water you drink with your acai berry supplement can help to curb your appetite so that you eat less of your meals. This is an easy way to reduce the number of calories you eat without feeling deprived.
Tips and Warnings
- Speak with your doctor before using any dietary supplement.
Member Comments