The acai berry diet has become the latest consumer health food fad. Propelled by exposure on the Oprah Winfrey show and by its own mystique, the acai berry and products made from its pulp and skins are at the center of a dietary tornado. There are dozens of acai products on the market, principally in the form of energy drinks, powdered acai for making energy or diet drinks, and capsules or pills that are sold over the counter.
The important dietary components in an acai berry are antioxidants, monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamin B and high fiber content. How much of these healthful compounds make it into a capsule, tablet or envelope of acai powder depends on how the berries were processed and to what degree the pure acai has been diluted. The first lesson in for newcomers to the acai berry diet is being sure to select a reputable manufacturer for you acai products.
The acai berry is native to Central and South America where it grows on a species of palm tree. Because the berry deteriorates rapidly after being harvested, it is not feasible to import fresh acai berries or other products into the United States. Most often the pulp and skin of the berry are freeze dried and then ground into a powder that can be used as a beverage additive or to make tablets and capsules.
All successful diets incorporate major dietary changes and exercise. It’s a change of lifestyle for many people. Diet supplements that are strong in nutritive and physiological value are important, and the acai berry, used in its pure format, can be an excellent choice. When shopping for an acai berry diet supplement, be sure that it has been made from a freeze dried product and that it hasn’t been diluted with extracts from other fruits or organic stimulants.