A super food is considered to be any food that provides health benefits beyond its natural nutritional value. Acai was assigned status as a super food when it first came into the public eye and has been promoted as such ever since. Exactly what value the acai berry contributes to human health beyond nutrition is a question that grows murkier as promotion of acai products becomes louder and more acute.
It is broadly accepted as an excellent source of antioxidants and of essential fatty acids. Antioxidants prevent oxidation of cells within the body, lowering the production of “free radical” cells which can, in turn, cause abnormal growth in other cells. Free radicals are believed to contribute to the growth of cancer cells, to heart disease and to sclerotic damage such as a stroke. The monounsaturated fatty acids within the pulp of an acai berry are compounds that can have anti-inflammatory impact as well as serving other vital nutritive functions.
As a low-calorie, low carbohydrate source of nutrition, the acai berry deserves recognition as a very healthy diet choice. As a contributor to essential vitamin or enzyme needs, the acai should also be recognized. Its intrinsic characteristics give it status similar to that of other fruits strong in antioxidants and vitamins. Accordingly, it deserves super food status.
None of these elements provide the required support for many of the claims now being made by promoters for acai products. It will not induce weight reduction, improve sexual performance, improve sleep, flatten your belly, relieve arthritic pain, or improve mental clarity. That is just a sampler of the claims that are being made for acai products.