Quick answer
Acai Jamba Juice can be a healthy choice in moderation. Acai berries are rich in antioxidants and nutrients. However, Jamba Juice blends contain a lot of added sugars and calories, so they should be consumed occasionally as a treat. Choosing lower calorie options with no added sweeteners is best.
What is acai?
Acai berries are small, deep purple fruits that grow on acai palm trees in Central and South America.[1] They have been consumed as a food staple by indigenous people for centuries.[2]
Some key facts about acai berries:
- They are low in sugar and rich in fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like potassium, calcium, vitamin A, and iron.[3]
- They have a unique berry-chocolate flavor.
- They are perishable and need to be consumed shortly after harvesting.
- To preserve them for transport, they are often frozen, dried, or made into juices and pulps.
Acai berries have gained popularity in recent years as a superfood due to their high antioxidant content.
Acai at Jamba Juice
Jamba Juice is a popular smoothie chain that offers acai bowls and smoothies containing acai juice or frozen acai puree.
Some of their menu items featuring acai include:[4]
- Acai Primo – Acai blended with strawberries, bananas, and apple juice.
- Brazilian Acai Bowl – Acai blended with strawberries, bananas, and soy milk. Topped with granola, strawberries, and blueberries.
- Acai Supercharge – Acai with wheatgrass, spinach, spirulina, and bananas.
The acai provides nutrients and antioxidants, while the other ingredients add flavor, texture, and additional nutrition.
However, many Jamba Juice acai items also contain added sugars and extra calories from ingredients like fruit juices, sherbet, soy milk, and sweeteners.
Nutritional profile of acai Jamba Juice smoothies
Here is the nutritional profile for two of Jamba Juice’s acai smoothies in 16 oz servings:[5]
| Smoothie | Calories | Total Fat | Sugar | Protein | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acai Primo | 260 | 1.5 g | 59 g | 3 g | 25 mg |
| Brazilian Acai Bowl | 350 | 4.5 g | 69 g | 5 g | 160 mg |
As you can see, acai smoothies from Jamba Juice are high in sugar due to the added fruit juices and sweeteners like agave nectar. The Brazilian Acai Bowl contains 69 grams of sugar, exceeding the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit of 36 grams for men and 25 grams for women.[6]
However, the smoothies also provide a hefty dose of antioxidants from the acai as well as fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Potential health benefits
Here are some of the potential health benefits associated with consuming acai berries and acai smoothies in moderation:
Rich in antioxidants
Acai berries are extremely high in antioxidants, which are compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.[7]
The antioxidants in acai include:[8]
- Anthocyanins – These give acai berries their deep purple color. Anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective effects.
- Procyanidins – Help protect cells from damage.
- Ferulic acid – An antioxidant with anti-aging effects.
Research has linked this high antioxidant capacity to health benefits including:[9]
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Anti-aging effects
- Possible anticancer effects
- Better brain function
- Healthier skin
Supports healthy inflammation response
Acai is rich in anthocyanins and polyphenols that help regulate the body’s inflammatory response.[10]
Uncontrolled, chronic inflammation is linked to diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.[11]
The anti-inflammatory compounds in acai may help prevent these diseases.
Boosts skin health
The antioxidants in acai can help protect the skin from damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, pollution, and other environmental stressors that generate free radicals.[12]
This antioxidant effect helps slow signs of aging like wrinkles and skin damage. The vitamins and healthy fats in acai also support hydrated, youthful looking skin.[13]
Supports brain function
Acai is rich in anthocyanins, which have been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and localize in brain tissue.[14]
Studies in animals have found acai anthocyanins improve memory and learning[15] and protect the brain from oxidative damage caused by aging.[16]
This antioxidant brain benefit may help prevent cognitive decline.
Aids digestion
Acai is high in fiber, which supports regular bowel movements and healthy digestion.[17]
Fiber feeds the good bacteria in your gut microbiome and helps prevent constipation.[18]
The antioxidants in acai may also reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.[19]
Potential downsides
While acai is linked to health benefits when consumed in food sources, there are some potential downsides to consider:
High in calories and sugar when juice or puree added to smoothies
On their own, acai berries are low glycemic and not very sweet.[20] However, acai juice, pulp, or puree often has added sweeteners.
Jamba Juice smoothies can contain over 50 grams of sugar from acai mixtures and added fruit juices and sweeteners like agave nectar.
This spikes blood sugar and provides empty calories without nutrients. Excessive intake may contribute to weight gain and other problems.
May interact with medications
Acai pulp and extracts contain compounds that may interact with some medications. For example, it may enhance anticoagulant drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding.[21]
Consult your doctor before consuming acai if you take any prescription medications.
Generally safe, but can cause reactions in some
For most people acai is safe, especially when eaten in moderation as part of foods. But it may trigger allergic reactions or side effects like diarrhea and abdominal pain in sensitive individuals.[22]
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution, as there is limited safety data.
Contains trace levels of mercury
Like other fish and seafood, acai berries may contain traces of methylmercury due to water pollution.[23]
For most people eating acai in normal food amounts, this is not a significant concern. But excessive consumption may lead to mercury buildup.
Pregnant women should limit acai intake to less than two servings per week, like other seafood.[24]
How to make your acai bowl healthier
Ordering or making your acai bowl with health in mind can help maximize nutrients while limiting sugar and calories.
Here are some tips:
- Choose acai with minimal added sugars or sweeteners.
- Avoid added juices, sherbet, jams, etc. Stick to whole fruits for toppings.
- Load up on fiber-rich grains like oats, nuts, or chia seeds.
- Top with antioxidant-rich fresh fruits like berries, kiwi, mango, etc.
- Add healthy fats like avocado or nut butters.
- If desired, drizzle with a small amount of honey, maple syrup or other natural sweetener.
- Skip sugary cereals, granola, cookies, etc. as toppings.
- Watch your portion sizes. Stick to one regular size bowl.
Creating your own acai bowl at home allows you to control the ingredients and sugar content.
The bottom line
Acai bowls and smoothies can be a healthy treat in moderation by providing antioxidants and nutrients. But the high calorie, sugar, and carbohydrate content of most commercial versions makes them more of a dessert.
To maximize nutrition, choose unsweetened acai or limit other high sugar ingredients. Pair acai with fiber, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense fruits and toppings.
Overall, acai Jamba Juice and bowls are fine for an occasional sweet indulgence. But they should not be treated as an everyday health food or meal replacement. Following a balanced, whole food diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is best for your health.