What is Acai Berry?

Acai berry (pronounced "AH-sigh-EE") is a palm tree native to Central and South America. The berries these trees produce are nutrient-rich, especially in antioxidants. They are even richer in phytonutrient antioxidants than blueberries. During an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey show, Dr. Nicholas Perricone promoted Acai berry juice as a "Superfood for Age-Defying Beauty."  Acai has since rocketed into the spotlight in North America.

How is Acai Berry Juice Used?

In South America, Acai is used as a dessert ingredient, juice, and liqueur flavouring. In the general consumer market, Acai is sold as frozen pulp, juice, and in various products from beverages and foods to cosmetics and supplements. Although initially touted as a weight loss aid, recent research has debunked that myth. Now it is generally promoted as a superfruit. This is because of its extremely rich antioxidant content and high levels of omega fats.

Antioxidant Activity

Antioxidants have the ability to neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals are reactive substances that damage nutrients and body tissues. We are exposed to free radicals in air pollution, UV rays, cigarette smoke, and even as byproducts of our own metabolism. This damage can result in cancer, cardiovascular disease, and the visible signs of aging. Due to its recent fame, the antioxidant ability of Acai was thoroughly tested and found to be extremely high.

  • This is the reason it has been touted to have anti-aging effects.
  • Also, the antioxidants found in Acai have been shown to be easily absorbed by our bodies
  • Some studies show that acai fruit pulp has a very high antioxidant capacity with even more antioxidant content than cranberry, raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, or blueberry. Studies are ongoing, though, and the jury is still out.

Acai Berry Powder & Weightloss Hype

Although Acai has had celebrity endorsement and a lot of media hype, and despite a relatively large number of scientific studies, there is no scientific evidence that acai consumption affects body weight or promotes weight loss. The only benefits attributed to Acai in this context are the high nutrient and antioxidant content, which can help enrich a calorie-restricted diet.

Why are Acai Berries used in Beauty Products?

Some cosmetics and beauty products contain acai oil in the ingredient list. That's because acai oil is a powerhouse of antioxidants that can help reduce free radical skin damage. Studies show that acai oil may be a safe alternative to other tropical oils used in beauty products such as facial and body creams, anti-aging skin therapies, shampoos, and conditioners. It may also have a longer shelf life because even when acai oil is processed and stored long-term, the antioxidant levels remain high.

How Much Acai Powder Per Day?

Acai berries can be found as frozen pulp, acai berry juice in various commercial beverages, and acai berry powder. In supplements, Acai can be found in powder or capsules as well as in many antioxidant and weight loss formulas. The juice is very high in antioxidants;  up to 2 cups per day can be consumed safely. Powdered extract allows for further concentration of the Acai, resulting in an overall more concentrated antioxidant. Recent research has shown that not all acai supplements are created equal. Those that are freeze-dried before processing maintain significantly higher antioxidant levels than those frozen or air-dried ("spray dried") before use. Dosage recommendations depend on the product but are generally 1,000-2,000mg of dried acai extract or 1-2 Tablespoons of liquid extract per day.

Acai Berry FAQ

Where To Buy Acai Berry?

  • Acai Berry is available in powder, capsule, or juice form in most health food stores.

What Does It Taste Like?

  • In juice form, Acai berry has a flavour similar to blackberry with a tinge of blueberry.  Some people say it also has an aftertaste of chocolate.

What is Acai Berry Good For?

  • Rich in powerful anthocyanin antioxidants, Acai Berry is an ideal superfood to use when you haven't been eating enough fruits or vegetables.

Are Acai Berries Safe?

  • In all of its forms, Acai Berry is considered a food and is generally safe for most people to add to their diet.