Rapid Fat Loss Diets

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Stay Clear of the Acai Berry Fraud

By Caitlin Ryan

Acai berries are truly one of nature's miracle foods. They are loaded in antioxidants, B vitamins and essential amino acids. They contain phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, which protect the plant from infection and free radical damage. When we consume the acai berries, the protective properties of the phytochemicals are transferred to us.

Because of all of those nutrients, acai berries are beneficial in preventing disease and slowing the signs of aging. They can also benefit weight loss efforts when proper diet and exercise are also used. They have antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

The antioxidants neutralize free radicals and repair the damage already done. Inflammation alone is responsible for many disease processes such as atherosclerosis. Both free radicals and inflammation are behind the aging process.

Unfortunately, you probably are not going to find a nice little basket of acai berries in the produce. You may find juice, smoothie mixes and powders, but the acai berry itself is grown in the Amazon on giant palm trees. You need to check the label of these products to make sure there is enough pure acai berries for the product to be beneficial. You might find only trace amounts of the berries and loads of sugar or corn syrup instead.

For the most part, acai berries available to us are in a supplement form. Liquid extracts, powders and pills containing natural acai berry extract are sold in health food stores and on the internet. The health news on these gorgeous purple berries leads to a boom in the development of supplements. Unfortunately, the popularity also leads to acai berry fraud.

The most common acai berry fraud is one in which a free trial is offered. The unsuspecting customer signs up and gives his or her credit card to the company to pay a minor shipping and handling charge. What they do not realize is they are signing up for an auto-shipment program. Suddenly (in some cases two days) a charge appears on their credit card for $50 or more for a bottle of acai berry supplement. Upon calling the company, they are given the runaround and some report to having to make several phone calls, all the while their credit card is still being charged.

The weight loss industry (the crooked ones in the bunch!) have also honed in on acai berry. Yes, acai berries can aid in weight loss, but nothing exists that aids in healthful weight loss without proper diet and exercise. Take caution in ordering acai berries touted as being this magic bullet in weight loss.

Acai berries are healthy and one of nature's gifts, but you have to be cautious when ordering these products on the internet. Check the company's website for certifications that they conduct business legitimately. The Better Business Bureau and other entities can verify good business practice for many quality companies. Read the fine print and find pure acai berry supplements. You can always make a phone call. - 17273

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