Acai is really a super fruit. But it is NOT intended for weigh loss, but for replacing bad cholesterol for the good one.

I live in the Amazon and take acai every day. I have also been working with the co-ops of acai pickers in the cities of Igarape-miri, Cameta and in the Island of Marajo. I have noticed that the caboclos from the Amazon who live in these areas have a very limited diet, which is based on acai, fish and tapioca. When the acai season ends, they replace acai for another oily fruit called buriti. Buriti is also a "superfruit" considering its carotenoids level can reach up to 20 times that of carrots.

In these areas, you barely see fat people. Indeed, most of them work in the early morning collecting acai and have a relaxed life in the rest of the day.

There has been a scientifical study conducted along 20 years by a very famous cardiologist who states that the level of coronary diseases in the regions is much lower compared to the rest of Brazil. Acai is a rich source of EFAs and HDL.


Since 2002, the demand for acai has been increasing at unimaginable rates. Indeed, the price of the fruit has increased within 8 years, more than 600%. This means that the caboclos have now a fair income, and all the participants of the acai supply chain are making a better living. But this does not necessarily explain the high prices of acai in the US market. In my opinion, what explain the high prices of acai in the US market are the huge profits of the companies who are marketing it. In Brazil, you can get the daily recommended dosis of ORAC from acai at a cost of approximately USD 0,25. And it is all natural, no extract or worked out formulations that only God knows what is inside.

I would rather drink acai as taking acai pills. Just need to add the powder to any juice and you will see the results. But acai is not a miracle fruit. It can help you a lot, but a diet rich in fruits and vegetable is also necessary.