The acai berry is a fruit. Fresh fruits are healthy parts of a well-rounded diet. In an Environmental Nutrition article, nutritionist Diane Welland said the acai berry is "particularly rich in polyunsaturated fats, dietary fiber, vitamin E, calcium, copper, potassium, magnesium and anthocyanins (antioxidants)." Eaten as a food, no dangers are associated with acai berries.

On the Other: If It Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Just May Be

Consumer health watchdogs warn that acai berries are hyped to have properties not supported by science and are sold by dishonest companies. Although these dangers don't necessarily result from taking the berries, taking something with the expectation of results it can't deliver (rapid weight loss for one) and putting yourself at risk of financial harm are dangers. A 2009 Consumer Reports on Health article warns, "We couldn't find any studies measuring whether acai has any direct effect on human health." Maryann Napoli, associate director of the Center for Medical Consumers, wrote about the "nightmare consequences" for those taken in by disreputable companies selling the berry.

Bottom Line

Not enough studies have been performed that support the claims about acai. Consuming the berry probably won't render you thin and glowing, but, as with most fruits, acai does offer vitamins and minerals. As Connecticut's Environmental Nutrition Center experts say, "While there is little reason to worry about risks of consuming moderate amounts of acai (other than to your pocketbook), you're better off eating a variety of fruits and vegetables that you can find closer to home."

Source:

"Environmental Nutrition"; 5 New Exotic Fruits: How "Super" Good for You Are They?; Diane Welland; June 2008

"Consumer Reports on Health"; Caution with Resveratrol and Acai Berries; September 2009

"HealthFacts"; Consumer Beware: Two Health Scams on the Internet; Maryann Napoli; April 2009