The health benefits of acai berries are several. They are rich in antioxidants and are widely used to prepare medicines that treat digestion and skin-related issues (1). Though the unprocessed acai fruit juice may not negatively affect you, the additional ingredients like toxic fillers, caffeine, tobacco, and sugar in acai berry supplements may make it harmful to your health. So, what exactly are the side effects of acai berry? Can you consume it raw? Can acai berry supplements be harmful to you? This article answers all these questions. So, let us now check out the 13 side effects of acai berry you should be aware of. Keep reading.
Some Of The Acai Berry Side Effects Are:
Long-Term Side Effects
Consuming processed Acai berry supplements can lead to the buildup of plaque and toxins in the body, which can cause a host of health problems ranging from acne to Candida to fatigue. Drug Interactions Acai berry supplements that contain garlic, ginkgo, and feverfew may interact with blood-thinning medications. When To See A Doctor In case of diarrhea, respiratory problems (especially if you have pollen allergies), and very low blood sugar levels (especially if you have diabetes).
Acai berry supplements contain herbs like garlic, gingko and Feverfew, which can cause the blood to thin, leading to severe bleeding (2). In fact, any health supplement containing these ingredients must be avoided.
Echinacea, a herb used in Acai supplement, can cause liver injury and allergic reactions (3).
Excess consumption of Acai berry enhances the effect of vasodilator in the body, causing significant reduction in the blood pressure (4). This can sometimes become fatal, especially for people who suffer from cardiac problems. Paul Claybrook, a certified nutritionist, says ”There is no official amount of acai berries that constitutes a daily serving. Eating too many is not a concern aside from potentially getting diarrhea.”
People who are underweight should avoid consuming Acai berry as it may suppress appetite and promote weight loss. However, this research has been done only on flies, and more studies on humans are warranted (5).
Acai berry, when taken over a period of time, may cause jaundice (6). Acai fruit may affect the results of the MRI scan (7).
Acai berry may cause the transmission of Chagas disease (8). It contains the remnants of tritomines- a blood sucking insect native to South America, which carries a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi (9). It is this parasite which causes Chagas disease.
Lactating women should avoid consuming Acai supplements. Although there isn’t any research showing how it may affect the fetus, it is better to take precautions to avoid any unnecessary complications.
Other side effects of acai berries include lower insulin levels, increased weight loss, and strokes (5).
Short-Term Side Effects
- Consuming Acai berries may cause headache, dizziness, and swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat. It may also cause wheezing or other respiratory problems.
- Some people who are affected by pollen allergies may have trouble with Acai products. People suffering from pollen allergies have reported that their allergies were aggravated by Acai berries. Visit your doctor immediately if the problems persist.
- People who are allergic to Acai or any other plant in the Arecaceae family, should refrain from consuming Acai berries (10).
- Acai berry can also cause irritation in the colon and intestinal tract, causing diarrhea. Although acai berry has no known medication interactions, you should still consume it with caution if you are on other medications. Consult with a doctor to avoid complications. Do all these side effects mean that you should avoid consuming acai berries altogether? Definitely not! Check out the next section to find out how you can add them to your diet and still stay safe from the side effects.
How To Incorporate Acai Berries Into Your Diet To Prevent Side Effects
Here are some tips on how you can incorporate acai berries into your diet thoughtfully to avoid potential side effects:
Consume acai berry products in moderation. Anecdotal evidence suggests taking 5-10g of acai powder per day might be safer. However, consult your doctor before taking any supplements. Avoid acai products mixed with refined sugar and additives that may lead to weight gain or blood sugar spikes. Add unsweetened acai to your oatmeal and smoothies. This way you can have it without overloading on sugar.
Can acai berry cause stomach problems? Although acai berries may not directly trigger any stomach problems, their supplements may cause gas, bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Does acai make you poop? Yes, acai berries are loaded with fiber that can help in easing constipation and make you poop. Is acai healthy for pregnant women? Acai berries are considered safe for consumption during pregnancy, as acai berry has many benefits when consumed in the right amounts. However, it is better to consult your doctor before introducing anything new to your diet during this time. Can acai cause acid reflux? No, acai does not cause acid reflux. Moreover, they are classified as alkaline fruits and provide relief from acid reflux. Does acai cause inflammation? No, acai does not cause inflammation. This fruit is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Is acai berry nightshade? No acai berry is not nightshade.
Illustration: Side Effects Of Acai Berry You Should Be Aware Of
Acai berries are popularly known as a type of superfood. However, overconsumption of the berries can lead to side effects. Watch this video to know more.
