While some of the scant research on açaí is compelling and, indeed, suggests significant antioxidant capacity, there is no evidence to support the use of açaí for weight loss. It is important that practitioners deflate the hype surrounding this botanical and indicate to patients that much more research is necessary to determine whether the antioxidant properties of açaí can be appropriately harnessed in topical or oral skin products.
That said, while I strongly recommend disabusing patients of the notion that açaí will help them lose weight, adding a sizable portion or portions of anthocyanin-containing berries, including açaí, in one’s diet is a healthy choice. As always, it’s best to suggest whole foods – real fruit – as opposed to diluted but sugared fruit drinks.