Acai berries are harvested from the Amazon jungle, where they grow on tall palm trees. The purple pulp is used to make juice, capsules, tablets and powder for nutritional products. Acai has been linked to everything from digestive health to preventing heart disease. In general, the berries seem safe. They do contain antioxidants, protein and healthy omega fats, but there are some medical warnings to keep in mind.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions are not uncommon with fruits, and acai berries are no exception. They appear to be more common in those who have allergies to pollen and palm, states The Acai Fruit website, so be careful when using acai berry products if you have these allergies. Even if you have no prior allergies, discontinue use, and see your doctor if you develop any rash or unusual symptoms. If you have difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat or tongue, get to an emergency room or call 911.
Quick Weight Loss
There has been no medical evidence that colon cleansing is necessary, and some doctors--including gastroenterolgist Michael Picco, M.D., of the Mayo Clinic--believe it could be dangerous. Many of the acai berry products promote weight loss through cleansing formulas. Using detox and quick weight loss supplements can cause dangerous dehydration if you do not drink enough water during and after using the product. There can also be a loss of important electrolytes. Check with your doctor before using any of these acai products for this purpose.
Tainted Products
Health Canada found a number of acai products to be tainted with the drug Sildenafil. Sildenafil, which is used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, can be dangerous to some individuals. It can even be life-threatening to those with heart conditions. Medical warnings have been issued by Health Canada to be careful of products like acai that are made with substances harvested and manufactured in areas outside the United States and Canada. While many of these companies claim to adhere to proper procedures, there are no proper inspections in many countries.
Cancer
Some companies have claimed that acai berries can cure cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found no evidence that acai can reduce or eliminate cancer cells. In fact, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center issued a statement that acai may lessen the positive effect of chemotherapy by interfering with the drugs used to eradicate the cancer. Do not use any acai products if you are undergoing chemotherapy without first consulting with your doctor.
Consideration
Dr. Mehmet Oz touted acai berry as an incredible nutritional supplement on the Oprah Winfrey show, but it was later stated that neither he nor Oprah Winfrey herself are endorsing any products. He also said that he did not tout acai as a weight loss drug. While acai may be a beneficial addition to a daily diet, it has not been proven to cure anything, and it should not replace a well-balanced, healthy diet.
Member Comments