Contraindications for Acai Supplements

Acai berries contain more antioxidant power than any other berry, and many health professionals have given them the title "superfood." Supplements of acai may help with weight loss, anti-aging and various diseases and conditions such as arthritis, cancer and high cholesterol. Acai is typically a safe substance because it is all natural. A few contraindications exist for taking acai supplements, however. It is always best to err on the safe side of caution.

Allergy

• Pollen allergies or allergies to berries similar to acai may signify a predisposition to an acai allergy. Acai supplements should not be taken by anyone who has allergies to those substances or a known allergy to acai. Symptoms of allergic reactions range from mild, such as a rash or itchy eyes, to severe, such as swelling of the throat and mental confusion or dizziness. Allergic reactions to acai berries are rare, but a severe allergic reaction could cause serious injury or death.

Pregnancy

• Although the many health benefits of acai may seem beneficial during pregnancy, it is best that pregnant women avoid taking acai supplements. A pregnant woman passes most of what she ingests to her unborn child through amniotic fluid. For this reason, pregnancy is considered a contraindication for many herbs and natural remedies due to a deficiency in information regarding possible effects on the fetus. Similarly, research regarding acai berries is still very limited, and adequate information regarding the safety of acai supplements during pregnancy is lacking. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid acai to avert possible side effects in both mother and baby.

Breastfeeding

• A breastfeeding mother also passes most of what she eats and drinks into her milk supply, which her baby ingests. While lactating, a woman typically should avoid the same herbs and natural remedies as in pregnancy, unless adequate studies consistently show that the substance has no side effects in babies. This type of research is still very limited in regard to acai. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should avoid acai to avert possible side effects in nursing babies.