Acai bowls have become one of the most hyped-up health foods on the market. They’re prepared from puréed acai berries — which are fruits grown in Central and South America — and served as a smoothie in a bowl or glass, topped with fruit, nuts, seeds, or granola.
Known for their vibrant color, creamy texture, andversatility, acai bowls are touted as an antioxidant-rich superfood.
On the other hand, the dish can be high in calories andadded sugar, and some claim it might do more harm than good when it comes toyour health.
Pros and Cons of AcaiBowls
This article from Healthline.comtakes a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of acai bowls to determine ifthey’re healthy.
Nutrient-Dense
The nutrition profile of your acai bowl varies depending onthe ingredients used. That said, most bowls are high in fiber, antioxidants,and micronutrients like vitamin C, manganese, and potassium.
Calories: 211
Fat: 6 grams
Protein: 3 grams
Carbs: 35 grams
Sugar: 19 grams
Fiber: 7 grams
Commercial varieties often come in much larger portions andcan contain up to 600 calories and 75 grams of sugar in a single serving,depending on which toppings you select.
In addition to acai berries, acai bowls often contain otherfruits like strawberries, blueberries, and bananas.
These fruits are a great source of vitamin C and manganese,both of which act as antioxidants that protect your cells against oxidative damagecaused by harmful compounds known as free radicals. They’re also high inpotassium, an important nutrient that regulates blood pressure levels andprotects against conditions like age-related bone loss and kidney stones.
Rich in Antioxidants
Acai berries are high in antioxidants that help neutralizefree radicals to prevent damage to your cells. Test-tube studies show that acaiberries are especially high in plant compounds known as anthocyanins. In onestudy, consuming acai pulp and applesauce increased levels of antioxidants inthe blood in 12 healthy adults within 24 hours.
Human and animal studies suggest that acai berries could belinked to lower cholesterol levels, better brain function, and decreased coloncancer cell growth due to this antioxidant content.
High in Sugar andCalories
Acai bowls usually contain added toppings like fruits, nuts,seeds, and granola. While these ingredients are nutritious on their own, it’seasy to go overboard with your toppings and turn a healthy snack into a highcalorie indulgence.
Acai bowls purchased from stores and restaurants are oftensold in large portion sizes, sometimes containing two to three servings in asingle bowl.
Commercially prepared acai bowls are high in sugar. Inaddition to contributing to weight gain, consuming too much added sugar canpromote the development of liver problems, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
The most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendlimiting your daily added sugar intake to no more than 12 teaspoons for thosefollowing a 2,000-calorie diet, which is equal to about 48 grams of sugar. Justone 6-ounce acai bowl packs in around 11 grams of added sugar, or about 23% ofthe total daily limit.
Acai Bowls HaveBenefits and Drawbacks
Acai bowls — especially those that are commercially prepared— are high in calories and sugar, which could contribute to weight gain andhealth issues like liver problems, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Clickhere to read full analysis of pros and cons of acai bowls.
