You might have heard of acai berries by now. They are one of the superfoods, containing mass amounts of antioxidants as well as B vitamins and amino acids. More importantly, they contain anthocyanins which are phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are a new area being researched. They are a natural component of plants meant to protect the plant from damage and disease. We receive similar benefits when we eat the plant.

Because of all of those nutrients, acai berries are beneficial in preventing disease and slowing the signs of aging. They can also benefit weight loss efforts when proper diet and exercise are also used. They have antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

The antioxidants neutralize free radicals and repair the damage already done. Inflammation alone is responsible for many disease processes such as atherosclerosis. Both free radicals and inflammation are behind the aging process.

Unfortunately, you cannot head to the local supermarket and purchase whole acai berries in the produce department. These gorgeous purple berries are grown in the Amazon, and the only products available at the grocery store are juices and frozen mixes meant for drinks or sauces. Be sure to check the label to see how much of the product is acai berries and how much is sugar or corn syrup. You might be able to find a powder form as well.

Much of what is found in acai berries is in the form of supplements: pills, powders and liquid extracts. You can find these in health food stores as well as the internet. The touted benefits of acai berries have lead to the development and sale of many acai supplements. And, as with anything that becomes really popular, acai berry fraud became rampant.

One of the more popular frauds is a “free trial” offer fraud. Not all free trials are fraudulent, but many customers have reported companies who offer these free trials and then sign the person up for an auto-shipment of more acai berry supplement. Some of these companies charge more than $50 for a bottle of acai berry supplements, and the charge ends up as a surprise. It is also quite difficult to get out of some of these acai berry frauds because when the person calls the company to cancel and seek reimbursement, the operators put them on hold for 20 minutes or more and continually transfer them from one department to another.

Another acai berry fraud is the weight loss supplement scam. Promises are made (all with small print disclaimers of course) that weight loss can be achieved solely by taking the acai supplement. Unfortunately, no magic bullet exists and people end up wasting their money and never losing a pound.

It is unfortunate that the con-artists have given a bad name to such a wonderful gift from Mother Nature. In the end, you have to check websites carefully to make sure they have some sort of seal by the Better Business Bureau or other entity that checks a company’s authenticity and business practices. As well, make sure you read the fine print. Look for credible companies with pure acai berry supplements or products.

Watch out for the acai berry fraud. Go there and discover which acai berry brands your can rely on.