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Acai Acai, also known as açai, pronounced AH-sigh-EE, is a berry fruit harvested from the tall, slender acai palm trees that are native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Not that long ago, acai was only available in areas where it was grown, being an important food source for the indigenous people of the region. Acai berries look as if they are a cross between grapes and blueberries. How- ever, they tend to be tender to travel longer distances. Most of the research on acai has been conducted in Brazil, and only a relatively small amount of this research has been conducted among humans. HEALTH BENEFITS AND RISKS Often called a superfood, acai berries have very high levels of antioxidants that protect the cells in the body against damage. While they are low in sugar, acai ber- ries have high amounts of calcium, fiber, vitamin A, and anthocyanin compounds such as resveratrol. Acai berries are useful for a host of medical problems such as arthritis, inflammation, weight loss, high cholesterol, and general health and well-being. They are probably best known for supporting cardiovascular health. People with certain health conditions should not take acai supplementation without discussing with a medical provider. For example, supplemental acai may interfere with treatment for high cholesterol and diabetes. In addition, acai has at least three compounds that promote blood thinning—flavonoids, salicylates, and oleic acid. People on blood thinning medications should probably avoid acai sup- plementation as they may increase the risk of internal bleeding. HOW IT IS SOLD AND TAKEN Acai is sold in juices and other beverages and in the freezer section of the supermarket or health food stores. Acai may be consumed as jellies, teas, freeze-dried powders, smoothie mixes, purees, capsule and softgel supplements, energy drinks, and ice creams. There are no guidelines on recommended doses of acai. Recommendations seem to vary widely, fluctuating from product to product. Although dosage of 1000–2000 mg per day is often recommended, acai is sold in both lower and higher amounts. People who plan to supplement their diets with acai should dis- cuss dosage with a medical provider.