Health Network News

One of nature’s miracles, acai berries are loaded in nutrients. They contain antioxidants, protein and many of the B vitamins. Phytochemicals, sometimes called vitamin P, are also present in acai berries. The phytochemical family in acai berries are called anthocyanins. Phytochemicals in plants protect the plant from disease and damage, and those protective properties are transferred to us when we consume the plant.

Acai berry nutrients are thought to prevent disease, aid in weight loss and slow aging. More than likely, this is a direct result of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nature of the various nutrients.

The antioxidants fight free radicals, preventing the damaging affects at the cellular level. They also aid in repair and replenishment of cells and bodily tissue. Inflammation causes many disease processes such as atherosclerosis. It is also behind aging and plays a role in obesity. The anti-inflammatory action of acai berries may therefore prevent disease, slow aging and aid in weight loss.

Acai berries are not found in the produce department because they are grown in the Amazon on large palm trees. Instead, you will find acai berry juice and frozen acai berry mixtures meant for smoothies or topping. You may also find powdered acai berry that you can use in a smoothie as well. Read labels carefully to make sure the product is not loaded in sugar. Juices tend to be watered down versions of what was once a healthy fruit.

Much of what is found in acai berries is in the form of supplements: pills, powders and liquid extracts. You can find these in health food stores as well as the internet. The touted benefits of acai berries have lead to the development and sale of many acai supplements. And, as with anything that becomes really popular, acai berry fraud became rampant.

The most common acai berry fraud is one in which a free trial is offered. The unsuspecting customer signs up and gives his or her credit card to the company to pay a minor shipping and handling charge. What they do not realize is they are signing up for an auto-shipment program. Suddenly (in some cases two days) a charge appears on their credit card for $50 or more for a bottle of acai berry supplement. Upon calling the company, they are given the runaround and some report to having to make several phone calls, all the while their credit card is still being charged.

The weight loss industry (the crooked ones in the bunch!) have also honed in on acai berry. Yes, acai berries can aid in weight loss, but nothing exists that aids in healthful weight loss without proper diet and exercise. Take caution in ordering acai berries touted as being this magic bullet in weight loss.

Ultimately, you need to research the company a bit. Look for certifications of good business practice such as seals offered by the Better Business Bureau. You should consider making a phone call. If you get put on hold right away, this is likely another acai berry fraud! If someone wanted to buy something from you, would you put that person on hold?