What about the new “Superfood” Acai Berry? (October 2008)

The Brazilian Acai berry is only one of the “Super Berry” family that includes pomegranate, goji berry (aka: wolfberry), mangosteen and the Chilean macqui berry. The first qualification is that the berry must be an exotic “berry type” fruit (cranberry, blueberry, bilberry, raspberries, strawberry are not members).

The Acai berry may have higher phenolic antioxidant content than a blueberry there is no scientific evidence that there are more health benefits to had by this alone. Many acai containing products make extraordinary, yet unsubstantiated claims, protected by fine print: “These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” One 500-milligram tablet for example claims that the berry can help to enrich the vitality of your body and soul.”

Acai is also rich in polyunsaturated fats, which makes it higher in calories than most North American fruits, and contains fiber, vitamin E, calcium, copper, potassium and magnesium. Because it is shipped from abroad, finding whole acai fruit is rare in the United States; it usually comes in the form of juice, blended with other tropical juices.

Many of my clients have asked me about Mona-vie a juice containing 19 fruits including acai. It is sold through multi-level marketing companies. One can purchase any acai juice as this Mona-vie juice is quite expensive $40 for a 750 milliliter bottle and pretty caloric. If you are interested in incorporating this superfood into your diet any acai juice can be added but limiting it to a 4-6 ounce serving would be recommended.