http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/expert.q.a/02/19/acai.weight.loss.jampolis/i
ndex.html

Asked by Joy Han, New York:

I have heard and read very much about acai berry and still am very
skeptical of its effects and the success stories. I would like to know
whether you would recommend it to your patients who are interested in
weight loss.

Expert answer :
Hi Joy. I have received this question several times and although I answered
it briefly last year, I think it is worth addressing again. The acai berry
has received a great deal of press for being a superfruit and the latest
tool in the battle against obesity.

Unfortunately, while the acai berry is a very good antioxidant and contains
disease-fighting phytonutrients, including the powerful anthocyanins, which
are also present in red wine, there is no evidence linking the acai berry
to weight loss. In fact, many of the juice products that contain acai are
also loaded with sugar, which could impair weight loss if consumed in
excess.

Acai supplements, as with all other supplements, are not well regulated, so
there is no guarantee of potency or strength as far as nutritional benefits
go either. The only role that antioxidants like acai may play in obesity is
in helping combat the low-grade inflammation that is often associated with
obesity, but they will not help you lose weight and any antioxidant rich,
nutrient-dense food will do the same. If you want to try acai as an
antioxidant, there is no downside, except perhaps to your pocketbook, but
you will probably get the same benefits from eating any berry on a regular
basis or simply eating a diet rich in deeply colored fruits, vegetables and
whole grains.