To make an acai smoothie bowl, frozen acai puree is combined and blended with other fruits (frozen or fresh) and desired toppings, like shredded coconut and almond butter. The consistency of a smoothie bowl can be compared to sorbet, so it is almost like you are eating dessert for breakfast!
Are Acai Smoothie Bowls Healthy?
Acai can provide great health benefits, especially for the heart, stomach and intestines, kidneys, liver, and nerves. It can also help normalize blood sugar levels and reduce the amount of fat molecules in the blood, along with being both antimicrobial and antiparasitic. Regarding what is contained within acai, it is a good source of fiber, protein, and fats that are good for the heart. It also contains numerous vitamins and minerals, including B1, B6, calcium, and potassium.
What's the Difference Between Smoothie and Acai Bowls?
There are quite a few differences between smoothie and acai bowls, including how they are prepared, the main ingredients, and their nutrients. To make a smoothie bowl, all the base ingredients are added to a blender and then put on high speed until it creates a smooth product. Acai bowls have a more frozen, thicker consistency due to the frozen acai puree included. Smoothie bowls can be highly versatile with their base ingredients, including fruits like pineapple, mango, spinach, and kale. Acai bowls are more limited in what base ingredients can be used, as acai has a strong berry flavor with a hint of chocolate to it, as well. Acai bowls have a higher antioxidant content, good-for-you fats, and fiber. Smoothie bowls can have many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, depending on the fruits included.
Can You Eat Acai Smoothie Bowls Every Day?
As noted, acai can be quite a healthy option, but in moderation. Acai smoothie bowls often include a sweetener like honey or maple syrup and other frozen or fresh fruits. The larger the acai smoothie bowl serving, the more sugar you are consuming, and the sweetener added also adds extra calories. Also, depending on the type and amounts of toppings you put on your acai smoothie bowl, they can add even more calories and sugar to the point where the smoothie bowl is no longer considered healthy. So, acai smoothie bowls should be considered a treat, not part of the everyday diet.
What Does Acai Do to Your Body?
With their high antioxidant content, acai berries help protect your body from potential cellular damage. They also contain vitamins and minerals that help reduce inflammation, keep blood sugar at a more normal level, and improve the workings of the immune system. Acai berries are recommended for assisting with health conditions such as high cholesterol, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. However, more scientific studies need to be conducted before these health benefits can be proven as true.
Why Does My Stomach Hurt After Eating Acai?
There are several reasons why your stomach could feel uncomfortable after consuming an acai smoothie bowl. One main factor is your digestive health. A digestive health condition like irritable bowel syndrome can impact how well high-fiber foods are digested and broken down. The other ingredients in the acai smoothie bowl can have certain sweeteners or other additives that can cause an upset stomach. The temperature of the smoothie bowl can also play a part – eating freezing foods will slow the digestive process, so it is best to consume acai smoothie bowls that are a bit colder than room temperature. The last factor that can impact how an acai smoothie bowl is digested is at what time of the day you are consuming it. Eating one right before bedtime can lead to abdominal discomfort and indigestion since the digestive process cannot be efficiently completed while lying down. Eating an acai smoothie bowl for breakfast or even as a snack between lunch and dinner is better.
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Resources
Babeu, D. (2021, August 6). Healthy or not? Acai bowls. New Jersey Bariatric Center.
Casa de Sante. (N.d.). Are acai bowls easy to digest. Casa de Sante.
Joyous Apron. (2020, May 14). Acai smoothie bowl. Joyous Apron.
Migala, J. (2024, June 6). Are acai bowls healthy? Here's what a dietitian says. EatingWell.
Sengodan, S. (2024, June 6). How does smoothie compare to açaí bowl? RedBerry Frozen Yogurt.
WebMD. (N.d.). Acai - Uses, side effects, and more. WebMD.
