You might have heard of acai berries by now. They are one of the superfoods, containing mass amounts of antioxidants as well as B vitamins and amino acids. More importantly, they contain anthocyanins which are phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are a new area being researched. They are a natural component of plants meant to protect the plant from damage and disease. We receive similar benefits when we eat the plant.
Acai berry nutrients are thought to prevent disease, aid in weight loss and slow aging. More than likely, this is a direct result of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nature of the various nutrients.
The antioxidants fight free radicals, preventing the damaging affects at the cellular level. They also aid in repair and replenishment of cells and bodily tissue. Inflammation causes many disease processes such as atherosclerosis. It is also behind aging and plays a role in obesity. The anti-inflammatory action of acai berries may therefore prevent disease, slow aging and aid in weight loss.
Unfortunately, you cannot head to the local supermarket and purchase whole acai berries in the produce department. These gorgeous purple berries are grown in the Amazon, and the only products available at the grocery store are juices and frozen mixes meant for drinks or sauces. Be sure to check the label to see how much of the product is acai berries and how much is sugar or corn syrup. You might be able to find a powder form as well.
For the most part, acai berries available to us are in a supplement form. Liquid extracts, powders and pills containing natural acai berry extract are sold in health food stores and on the internet. The health news on these gorgeous purple berries leads to a boom in the development of supplements. Unfortunately, the popularity also leads to acai berry fraud.
The biggest fraud would be the “free trial” fraud. Acai berry supplements are offered as a free trial. The customer pays a minor shipping charge, so the company is given the person’s credit card information. Unbeknownst to the customer, however, they automatically sign up for future shipments. Their credit cards are charged for the shipment before it even arrives in most cases. Worst of all, you may end up fighting tooth and nail to get the charge removed and stop the auto-shipments. Most of these companies transfer call after call and keep people waiting on hold long before anything is remedied.
Another acai berry fraud is the weight loss supplement scam. Promises are made (all with small print disclaimers of course) that weight loss can be achieved solely by taking the acai supplement. Unfortunately, no magic bullet exists and people end up wasting their money and never losing a pound.
Ultimately, you need to research the company a bit. Look for certifications of good business practice such as seals offered by the Better Business Bureau. You should consider making a phone call. If you get put on hold right away, this is likely another acai berry fraud! If someone wanted to buy something from you, would you put that person on hold?
Watch out for the acai berry fraud. Go there now and learn which acai berry brands your can rely on.
