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Acai berry products: What are the health benefits?

Do you have any information on the health benefits of acai berry products?

- Cecilia / California

Mayo Clinic dietitian Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

The acai berry is a grape-like fruit harvested from acai palms in the rainforests of South America. Acai berries are a good source of antioxidants, fiber and heart-healthy fats. Some manufacturers claim that products made from acai berries can help you lose weight, lower cholesterol and gain energy. Research on acai berries is limited, however, and these claims have not been proved. Still, fruit is an important part of a healthy diet. If you'd like to try acai berry products, check local health food or gourmet stores for acai berry juice or other acai berry products. Fresh acai berries spoil too quickly to be distributed widely.

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Oct 13, 2008