Acai

BACKGROUND

By now, you've probably heard about this mysterious fruit from the Amazon, but can it really help you lose weight?  Acai (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) is the name of a tiny purple berry harvested from palm trees in the rainforests of Brazil. The acai berry itself is quite tiny and these berries are just packed with nutrients, especially antioxidants and fiber. In fact, nutrition experts like Dr. Nicholas Perricone have already declared the acai berry to be one of the top super foods on the planet.

The acai berry has more antioxidants than any of its fruit competitors, as well as generous vitamins, minerals, amino acids and essential fatty acids. This super food is used for many purposes, including increasing energy, building muscle and preventing the effects of aging.

Most recently, there have been a growing number of products praising acai for weight loss and detox capabilities. These supplements might very well contribute to minimal weight loss (flushing of toxins and water weight), but you'll likely not experience lasting weight loss or a reduction in body fat.

Though acai berries may not be a panacea, they can improve your health and boost your energy levels, two things that are extremely important when you are trying to drop those extra pounds.

PRO

- Contains vitamins and minerals.

- Packed with antioxidants, amino acids, fiber and essential fatty acids.

- Increases energy and boosts your health.

- Easy to find online and in health food stores.

- Whole berries and acai food products have a rich flavor.

CON

- There are many acai products on the market, be weary of impostors.

- Acai products can be very expensive, as they are not native to the U.S.

- Weight loss claims by acai supplements cannot be substantiated.

- Any weight lost with acai supplements is not likely to last and is not from body fat.

INGREDIENTS

Acai products come in many forms, including berries, juices, pills, powders and capsules. Your best bet is to choose a product that is as close to the natural berry as possible. Ingredients will vary by each individual product.

INSTRUCTIONS

Instructions will vary depending on the product.

Product Misspellings

Acai Diet, Acai Berry Diet, Acia, Acaee, Asaee, Acee, Asai