The acai berry is considered a "superfood" because it is very nutrient-dense and contains high amounts of free-radical-neutralizing antioxidants. Native to the South American rain forest, the acai berry is used by the natives as a whole food source of nutrition because it contains essential fatty acids, amino acids, carbohydrates and a large amount of fiber. The healthful components of the acai berry make it a perfect addition to your weight-loss plan.
Step 1
Try a one- to three-day fast to jump-start your weight-loss program. "The Miracle of Fasting" book by Paul C. Bragg recommends drinking an apple cider vinegar health drink three to five times per day to eliminate hunger and cleanse the body. Combine 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar with 1 tbsp. of honey, 2 tbsp of acai juice or 1/4 berries and 8 oz. of distilled water.
Step 2
Eat 30 percent of your daily calories from protein, 30 percent from healthy fats and 40 percent from low-glycemic carbohydrates. According to Mackie Shilstone, author of "The Fat Burning Bible," this is the best ratio of macro-nutrients for burning fat. Add acai berries to meals for their nutrient-dense, antioxidant properties. Acai, when taken with meals, may improve fat burning and keep blood sugar low to decrease fat storage.
Step 3
Decrease your caloric intake. Simply put, eat less. Losing a pound of fat requires a caloric deficit of 3,500 calories. By decreasing caloric intake by 500 calories per day, healthy weight loss can be achieved. Prevent cravings by eating acai berries with meals. Acai berries may help to suppress hunger due to their natural fiber content.
Step 4
Choose a workout program that includes both resistance training and cardiovascular exercise. Try 30 minutes of each three times per week. Have a serving of acai berries before and after working out. Before training, the acai may give you energy to burn more calories. After exercising, acai can help to eliminate free radicals produced by the metabolism and/or cellular respiration.
Step 5
Eat one "cheat meal" per week to keep your metabolism run strong. According to the "Muscle Nerd," Jeff Anderson, indulging your cravings once a week will actually improve your weight-loss efforts. Try adding acai juice or berries to desserts for a delicious and healthy cheat.
References
- "Combat the Fat"; Jeff Anderson; CQC LLC, 2008
- "The Abs Diet"; David Zinczenko; Rodale, 2004
- "The Fat Burning Bible"; Mackie Shilstone; John Wiley & Sons Inc., 2005
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