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Acai Berries: Feel Like Wasting Your Time (And Money)?

By Lisa Shanken
July 12, 2010
Acai berries...another fad diet that does not work!

An Internet search for acai berries is like browsing a list of spam emails. A majority of these so-called 'balanced reviews' that weigh the 'pros and cons' of acai berries are thinly veiled marketing ploys that involve getting you to give up your credit card details for a free trial of acai berry supplements which you'll find extremely hard to cancel later. Against all of these expert opinions, you may think, what makes my diatribe any different? Well, I work as a nutrition counselor, advising people on wholesome food and fitness. That's my 9 to 5. I'm also a loving mother of two kids, whom I try to teach to think logically about nutrition, and I've never advocated a single fad diet. I am also not trying to sell you anything, and this blog post will not lead to some place where you can purchase some dubious supplements like acai berry or any other product.

Have you noticed the manipulation that goes into these marketing ploys? I just recently read in one of these sales pitches that, "A 'quality' bottle of 100% acai costs 40 to 50 dollars. Steer clear of products that come cheap!" Not only have they duped you into buying something that supposedly promises jaw-dropping weight loss, better looks, an increased sex drive, more energy and freedom from cancer, they've also managed to convince you to part with more cash for what is essentially tequila flavoring.

Antioxidants?

First of all, acai berries are touted for their 'massive' amounts of antioxidants, called polyphenols. In a controlled environment study, acai berries scored lower on the antioxidant potency and polyphenol content scale than mangoes, grapes and strawberries [1].

Weight Loss?

There isn't any scientific study that acai promotes weight loss, period. Wikipedia contains this blurb: "According to the Washington, D.C. based Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) thousands of consumers have had trouble stopping recurrent charges on their credit cards when they cancel free trials of açai-based products." [2] Not to mention that the rising popularity of acai berries in America could be depleting Brazilians of a berry that has been a dietary staple, as featured in Bloomberg News in May 2009.

But Oprah Likes It…Right?

Oprah has publicly disclaimed any connection with acai berry products. The article states, "Neither Ms. Winfrey nor Dr. Oz has ever sponsored or endorsed any acai, resveratrol or dietary supplement product and cannot vouch for their safety or effectiveness. It is our intention to put an end to these companies’ false claims and increasingly deceptive practices." You can read about it here: http://www.oprah.com/health/The-Truth-About-Oprah-Dr-Oz-Acai-Resveratrol-and-Colon-Cleanse

So...acai berries join the list of diets that simply do not work!

Instead...Kill The Diet & Eat Your Way To A Healthy Weight!

[1] Kuskoski EM, Asuero AG, Morales MT, Fett R (2006). "Wild fruits and pulps of frozen fruits: antioxidant activity, polyphenols and anthocyanins". Cienc Rural 36 (4 (July/Aug)).

[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A%C3%A7a%C3%AD_Palm

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Lisa Shanken

My passion is to help you live your healthiest and most harmonious life, but in a way that’s realistic and practical for you as a unique individual on this planet. My philosophy is all about “balance,” never a diet since a diet is not sustainable for life, aka Kill The Diet.

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Testimonials

Lisa’s weight loss plan really gave me a new insight to healthy eating and living. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2015. Healthy living/easting/exercise has become very important to me and my family and this program really helped me get even more on the course with this and helped me lose weight.

Danielle D, Great Neck, NY

When I heard about the 10 Day Weight Loss Challenge, I wasn’t sure if it would be a good fit, since as a physician, I understand nutrition and health (and therefore knew the dangers of fad diets, etc…), and I do my best to exercise (though not always enough). But as a single mother of 2, it’s still very challenging ti “fit in all in” (including cooking healthy meals for my children) due to my busy schedule. And when my time is short, bad habits crop up and weight gain follows.

Dr. Gila Ackerman, Boulder, CO

Psychiatrist
Lisa has made an enormous contribution to my health and strength. I have seen and felt the most fantastic changes in an amazingly short time.

Chessie F, Boulder, CO

I just wanted to say you were amazing through this 10 day process! I learned so much from you! You were very thorough in all areas of the challenge and got back to us in such a quick manner with our questions. It was a great jump start into a more healthy life style that’s for sure!

Colby E, Boulder, Colorado

I LOVE the recipes, simple, few ingredients, appealing. I like the idea of using the list of staples you provided when i was tempted to cheat!

Phyliss S, Spring House, PA

I worked with Lisa to develop a holistic wellness plan that has allowed personal growth without having to completely change my lifestyle. Her programs are designed around your personal needs, so I always feel like I've gotten the most from my sessions and leave with manageable goals. Lisa's three-prong approach to wellness (fitness, nutrition and health) is helping me live a balanced and grateful life.

Ali S., Boulder, CO

I’ve been through the ringer with different dieting plans through the years. Some helped me lose weight and some didn’t – but it didn’t matter because I would always gain it back. I didn’t know if this 10 day Weight Loss Challenge would be the answer since everyone says they have the “BEST” way to lose weight. But this one seemed to be more doable – like instead of starving myself, keeping track of calories (“been there done that – VERY annoying!”) and things I know I wouldn’t stick to.

Jill W, Park, NY

Lisa, you have been a very positive role model for me! Through the exercise and diet I’m becoming healthy and more positive about my life!!! Thanks!

Melissa B, Boulder, Colorado

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