Acai has gained a lot of attention recently, and is found increasingly in dietary supplement outlets. I have read from some sources that it may be used in treating diabetes, but the references are vague and not specific for any research on the topic. It does appear to contain some elements which may be helpful in diabetes support though, if only for secondary conditions.

It is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. One source also says it contains omega 6 and 9 fatty acids, which are associated with heart health. Given the rapid cellular deterioration associated with diabetes, anything that helps to counteract the affects of aging or heart disease may be helpful to a diabetic.

Acai also contains a range of trace elements which are helpful in maintaining muscle health. It is thought to help lower cholesterol, and since it is high in fiber, to help maintain digestive tract health and reduce the incident of colon cancer.

People describe it as having a taste somewhere between fruit and chocolate. The flavor takes some getting used to by some users. It is not widely available yet in the more remote areas, but may be found in health food stores, and through suppliers online.

We are seeing a proliferation of a wide range of fruit supplements becoming available, and acai is another in a long list, all of which seem to offer similar benefits. Remember that if you drink a juice or eat a fruit supplement that it will have carbs that have to be counted.

Since the overall affect on blood sugar is largely unknown with this berry, you’d want to use it under close medical supervision, and with frequent monitoring of your blood sugar, even if you don’t take it specifically for blood sugar control.

Tags: acai, acai berry, acai juice, antioxidants, autoimmune disease, carb counting, diabetes, herbal supplement, insulin resistance, supplement