Acai (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) berries have been making headlines as one of the healthiest foods on the planet. They’re supposed to be good for weight loss, anti-aging, and more. But can acai really help you lose weight, as the online ads promise? WebMD asked diet and nutrition experts for the truth about acai and weight loss.
Researchers have found the acai berry has antioxidants that may protect cells from damage caused by harmful molecules in the body called “free radicals,” and may possibly help against diseases such as heart disease and cancer. But when it comes to weight loss, the hype is ahead of the science, because the research evidence for such a connection is lacking. Even Oprah Winfrey has posted comments on her web site disassociating herself with acai products that claim to promote weight loss.
“Acai is a nutrient-rich source of antioxidants, much like many other fruits, but there is nothing magical about the fruit to cause weight loss,” says David Grotto, RD, author of101 Foods That Could Save Your Life.