Acai berries are touted as a superfood with anti-aging and weight loss properties. But do they live up to the hype?

What is the acai berry? The acai berry is an inch-long, reddish-purple fruit. It comes from the acai palm tree, which is native to Central and South America. Some studies show that acai fruit pulp is even richer in antioxidants than cranberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, or blueberries.

What are the health benefits of acai berries? People eat acai berries to address various health conditions. But so far, acai berries have no known health benefit that’s different from similar fruits.

Can acai berries boost weight loss? Some weight loss products tout acai, but few studies have tested whether acai promotes weight loss. There’s no doubt that berries and other fruits are a key part of any healthy diet. The jury’s still out on whether there is something special about acai’s ability to help shed excess pounds.

Why are acai berries used in beauty products? Some cosmetics and beauty products include acai oil because of its antioxidants. Acai oil may be a safe alternative to other tropical oils used in beauty products, such as facial and body creams, anti-aging skin therapies, shampoos, and conditioners. When acai oil is processed and stored long-term, the antioxidant levels remain high.

Do acai berries and acai juice have any side effects? If you have pollen allergies or are sensitive to acai or similar berries, you may want to avoid this fruit. When eaten in moderate amounts, though, acai is likely safe.