These purple bowls have captured superfood status, but what’s in them may surprise you.

Acai bowls are gorgeouspurple and brimming with toppings like cubed mango, granola and shredded coconut.

“The trend started when the acai berry was categorized as a superfood,” she says.

What’s in an Acai Bowl?

Usually, the base of the bowl is made from acai.

You wouldn’t simply eat them if you were to come upon them in the wild.

The taste isn’t the traditionally sweet-tart berry that you’re probably used to.

Some people describe the taste as earthy, a bit like tea.

Harrington calls it a cross between blackberries and unsweetened chocolate.

A fruit blend will likely taste sweeter, especially if acai is mixed with juice.

Is Acai Good for You?

It may help stabilize blood sugar and lower blood lipids.

Acai also appears to have antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties.

According to this same review, acai berries are often freeze-dried.

They contain numerous nutrients, including protein, heart-healthy fat and fiber.

You’ll also get some vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, calcium and vitamins B1 and B6.

While some claim that acai promotes weight loss, there is currently no evidence to support this.

To keep calories and sugar in check, Harrington suggests considering the base of your bowl first.

it’s possible for you to alsomake your own granolaand control the amount of sugar per serving.

And you might also consider our bowl size, too.

A deeper bowl might encourage a bigger portion whereas a shallow vessel such as apasta bowlmight be more helpful.

The Bottom Line

Acai bowls can be a great way to get antioxidant-packed fruit into your day.