Acai Berries - What's All the Buzz?

Lately I've noticed a "hot" new subject filling my SPAM folder – acai.

Acai (pronounced ah-sah-ee) berries are the fruit of the acai palm tree, native to South and Central America.

Is acai a "superfood"? Does it promote anti-aging? Can it help you lose weight?

The jury is still out. 

While a number of studies have been done on various forms of acai berries, the most we can say for sure is that they are high in antioxidants. Like other purple fruits – blueberries, plums, eggplant, purple cabbage and grapes, acai berries contain anthocyanins and flavonoids, antioxidants that may interfere with aging and promote good health by neutralizing free radicals in the body.

Chemical analysis on acai berries (test tube studies, not human studies!) have shown mixed results.  One study on fruit pulp showed acai to have more antioxidant activity than cranberry, blueberry, raspberry and strawberry pulp.

Another study found that acai berry juice had less antioxidant activity than pomegranate, blueberry and red grape juice.

Currently, there is no proof that acai berries help promote weight loss.

Should you try it?

There's plenty of research supporting the health benefits of eating fruit. But with no clear proof that acai berries offer any special benefits, I'd suggest sticking with more affordable, locally-grown fruit.

With summer approaching, lots of red and purple fruit are on the way. Enjoy strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, grapes, plums and watermelon for plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber and just plain enjoyment!