Stay Clear of the Acai Berry Fraud

You might have heard of acai berries by now. They are one of the superfoods, containing mass amounts of antioxidants as well as B vitamins and amino acids. More importantly, they contain anthocyanins which are phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are a new area being researched. They are a natural component of plants meant to protect the plant from damage and disease. We receive similar benefits when we eat the plant.

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 cannot head to the local supermarket and purchase whole acai berries in the produce department. These gorgeous purple berries are grown in the Amazon, and the only products available at the grocery store are juices and frozen mixes meant for drinks or sauces. Be sure to check the label to see how much of the product is acai berries and how much is sugar or corn syrup. You might be able to find a powder form as well.

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.

Another acai berry fraud is the weight loss supplement scam. Promises are made (all with small print disclaimers of course) that weight loss can be achieved solely by taking the acai supplement. Unfortunately, no magic bullet exists and people end up wasting their money and never losing a pound.

It is unfortunate that the con-artists have given a bad name to such a wonderful gift from Mother Nature. In the end, you have to check websites carefully to make sure they have some sort of seal by the Better Business Bureau or other entity that checks a company’s authenticity and business practices. As well, make sure you read the fine print. Look for credible companies with pure acai berry supplements or products.

Look for the acai berry fraud. Go there and learn which acai berry brand you can trust.

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