Acai (pronounced ah-sah-ee) berries come from the palm trees shown above.  There are eight different species of Acai palms that are all native to Central and South America which produce fruit semi-annually.   The Acai berry has been said to be a distant cousin to the blueberry and the juice of the berry has recently become a highly desired health elixir.  If you are looking for more than antioxidants, Acai juice also provides vitamins C and A, calcium, iron and essential amino and fatty acids.

Studies of three commercially available Acai beverages have shown the juice of the Acai Berry has levels of antioxidants that are lower than pomegranate juice, blueberry juice and red wine; antioxidant levels equal to those found in black cherry and cranberry juice and higher antioxidant levels than orange juice, apple juice and tea.  As you can see, a combo of several of these fruits and berries would be ideal to achieve maximum nutritional value.

If  you are looking for a all natural Acai Berry beverage that contains several “power packed” fruits and berries, check out the  Efusjon Energy Drink. Efusjon is a superior choice for  those who consume Red Bull, Monster or other highly caffeinated, artificially sweetened “energy drinks”. Efusjon is extremely low in calories and high in nutrients. If you are trying to loose a few pounds, Efusjon would be a healthier, less fattening, and more affordable alternative to a daily Starbucks Latte or 7-11 Big Gulp.

As far as an allergic reaction to the Acai Berry, the rule of thumb is, if you are allergic to one food be aware of all foods in that specific group.  According to www.webmd.com, If you have pollen allergies or have a known hypersensitivity to similar berries, you may want to avoid this fruit. I you suffer from pollen, ragweed or birch tree allergies and consume specific fruits you may experience an effect called ‘cross-reactivity.’ This takes place when allergenic material on the surface of pollen is very similar to allergenic material on the surface of certain foods making the body unable to distinguish between the allergens and initiating an allergic reaction.

Without an existing allergy to Heart of palm or blueberries it would seem unlikely to have a reaction to Acai juice.  However, if there is an allergy concern, introduce the Acai juice in half ounce doses for the first week gradually adding another half ounce per week until you reach the recommended daily serving.  Be sure to stop consuming the fruit and/or juice if any discomfort or physical reaction occurs.