Acai Berry and Appetite Suppression
Researches conducted by several scientists have resulted in an overwhelming response to the use of acai berry. It has now been established that the regular dietary intake of berry fruits such as acai berry has a positive impact on the health, performance, and disease in human beings.
The acai fruit or acai berry grows on a large palm tree known as Euterpe oleraceae which is indigenous to the Amazon River. Acai is of great economic value to native people. It is traditionally consumed in Brazil on a regular basis while people all over the world have realized its importance in the diet.
Appetite suppression through supplementation
Acai berry supplements have been used widely for its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. Acai berry is also being promoted for another property - appetite suppression.
Studies have reported that acai berry contains different compounds that have beneficial effects on the body. Along with anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, acai berry contains lipids (49.4%), proteins (13.8%), ash (5.2%) and dietary fiber (27.3%). 1
The high concentration of these substances can provide a satiety feeling when acai berry is consumed in adequate quantities. The high fiber content present in acai berry can be majorly attributed for this effect.
Acai berry is known for its nutritional values and acts as a good source of nutrition. It has been consumed widely by the natives of Brazil for its nutritive benefits.2 The high fiber content may act as an appetite suppressant by creating a feeling of fullness in the stomach following its consumption. This helps in controlling the amount of food being consumed thereby leading to loss of weight.
Medications generally advised for weight loss contain similar agents that cause appetite suppression. Overweight or obese individuals generally have a tendency to overeat and regular consumption of acai berry which can act as an appetite suppressant may be beneficial in such individuals.
References:
- Neida S, Elba S. Characterization of the acai or manaca (Euterpe oleracea Mart.): a fruit of the Amazon. Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2007 Mar;57(1):94-8.
- Mertens-Talcott SU, Rios J, Jilma-Stohlawetz P, Pacheco-Palencia LA, Meibohm B, Talcott ST, Derendorf H. Pharmacokinetics of anthocyanins and antioxidant effects after the consumption of anthocyanin-rich acai juice and pulp (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) in human healthy volunteers. J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Sep 10;56(17):7796-802. Epub 2008 Aug 12.