Acai

Acai is available in capsule, powder or juice form, and choosing the right form depends on individual preferences, lifestyle and the purposes for which the supplement is used. Acai powder is made by drying and grinding acai fruit. 

Manufacturers of acai powder or acai capsules - Obio, Health Nutrition, Niavis, Secom, Purasana, Alevia, Solaris, Planet Bio etc.

Acai berry is recognized for its many health benefits, and acai-based supplements are used for a variety of purposes:

• Powerful antioxidant: acai is rich in antioxidants, which fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. This helps prevent chronic diseases and protect cells from premature ageing.

The antioxidant content of foods is usually measured by the ORAC (Oxygen Free Radical Absorbance Capacity) score. In terms of this score, acai may contain up to three times more antioxidants than blueberries.

• Improved cardiovascular health: regular consumption of acai can help reduce levels of 'bad' cholesterol (LDL) and increase levels of 'good' cholesterol (HDL), thus helping to maintain heart health.

• Improved cognitive function: Antioxidants in acai may support brain health, improving memory and learning capacity, and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Dosage for acai supplements may vary depending on the dosage form and purpose of use:

1. Capsules: the typical recommended dose is 1-2 capsules of 500 mg, twice a day, taken before meals.
2. Powder: the usual dose is 1-2 teaspoons (about 5-10 grams) a day, mixed into a smoothie, juice or yogurt.
3. Juices and drinks: the recommended dose varies between 100-200 ml per day. It is important to check the product label to follow the specific dose recommended by the manufacturer.

Although acai is generally considered safe for most people, there are a few contraindications to be aware of:

• Allergies: People allergic to palm fruit, other similar tropical fruits or pollen should avoid acai as there may be a risk of allergic reactions.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There are insufficient studies confirming the safety of acai during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is recommended to consult your doctor before consuming acai supplements during these periods.

Important! Consumption of certain acai products can affect the results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests. If you are scheduled for an MRI, it is recommended that you avoid consuming acai before your appointment.

Acai puree is also available commercially. Pay attention to the product label as some acai purees have a very high amount of added sugar.

Important! Follow the instructions on the product packaging and consult a doctor or nutritionist before starting to use acai supplements, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Eating acai products is generally safe for most people.

However, consumption of unprocessed acai juice has been linked to a parasitic disease called American trypanosomiasis, also known as Chagas disease. 

They could interact with drugs like ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory painkillers.

Taking acai with oral antidiabetic medicines could cause your blood sugar to drop too low or reduce the effects of these medicines.

The risk of overdose with acai is low, but excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and other adverse effects mentioned above. 

In general, it is important not to exceed the recommended daily dose and to follow the directions on the product label.

Storage conditions

Store away from heat, light and moisture in a cool, dry place.

• Healthline, 5 impressive health benefits of acai fruit
• Drugs.com, Acai
• WebMD, Acai and acai juice - What are the health benefits?
• NCCIH, Acai
• Health.com, Health benefits of acai