Side Effects of Acai Berry Products

Acai is a health-promoting plant native to Brazil, and its berries have recently become well-known for their nutritional value. They contain antioxidants, essential fatty acids, vitamin B1, vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron and amino acids. As more and more people begin to use acai products, it becomes important to know the safety of their use, as some may experience negative side effects from taking them.

Allergies

• Acai products may come into contact with airborne pollens before the berries are picked. People with allergies to pollens such as ragweed, birch or apple, and those who suffer from asthma, should treat acai products with caution. According to the Mayo Clinic, reaction to pollen found on foods, such as berries, may cause symptoms such as tingling in the mouth, swelling of the throat or anaphylaxis. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use of the product and seek medical attention immediately.

Stimulation

• Acai berries contain a stimulant called theobromine---a bitter plant chemical that may cause sleeplessness, increased heart rate and headaches in some people. Theobromine has a similar chemical structure to caffeine, though it is much weaker, and is also found in kola nuts, cocoa and tea. This chemical may be responsible for some of the reported benefits of acai berries on the nervous system. People who suffer from cardiovascular disease, insomnia or headaches should use acai with caution.

Chemical Fillers

• Some acai products may contain fillers to potentiate the advertised effects of the acai berry, or to reduce the price of the product. Consumers should read labels carefully, and to treat acai products purchased online with a great deal of caution. Some fillers used in commercial acai products may include vitamin C, caffeine and over-the-counter medications. In 2009 "The Independent" published a warning from Health Canada on acai products, as several brands were found to contain levels of the drug Viagra.

Digestive Discomfort

• Some people may experience digestive discomfort from the use of acai products, as these berries may inhibit the production of digestive enzymes in the body. According to researcher Carina Araújo and colleagues, whose study was published in the journal "Food Chemistry" in 2004, acai berries were found to have a significant effect upon the body's production of amylase, an enzyme that is required for the breakdown of sugar, starch and fiber. While more clinical studies are required, people who consume large quantities of acai berries may notice flatulence, bloating and digestive discomfort.