The aim of this article is to provide information to you, fellow lover of all things Acai, so that you can make an informed decision to choose wisely if Acai bowl calories are important to you.
Realistically, there is a lot of difference in the amount of Acai bowl calories depending on the ingredients. The reference here is between commercially prepared or homemade acai bowls.
Acai Bowl Calories are not all Created Equally.
Commercial Acai bowls often have large servings with so many extra toppings that can add up to many extra calories, even ones that seem to appear a healthier option than others on the acai bowl menu.
Generally, the least amount of ingredients is normally the better option to choose.
Even the actual frozen acai puree or acai freeze dried powders differ between brands.
There won’t be any naming and shaming here, just creating an awareness that some brands offer healthier versions of acai.
When you can, choose unsweetened pure acai if it is available. Read the nutritional label on the back of packaging to choose the acai that is right for you.
For a healthier choice the recommendation here is to aim for 100% unsweetened acai puree or acai powder in unsweetened form.
NOTE: you may have to go to a health food store or go online to purchase a superior acai.
Need to Know How many Calories in an Acai Bowl – an Average Guideline
It is important to realise that Acai Puree on its own may only contain between 60 and 120 calories per 100g serving dependant on the brand you use.
Acai freeze dried powder on its own may only contain between 12 and 30 calories per 3g serve which is roughly 1 heaped teaspoon.
Create your own acai bowl using the following basic recipe…….
Basic Acai Bowl Calories when made at home, approximate guide:
- 1 acai frozen pouch @ 120 calories(can range between 60-120 calories brand dependent)
- Add in 1/2 medium size frozen banana @ 55 calories
- Add in ½ cup of frozen blueberries @ 40 calories
- Add 1 medium fresh apple, skin on, cored @ 95 calories
= 310 calories approx
So, 310 calories is easily workable into the daily diet, regardless of whether weight loss is the end goal.
How Many Calories in an Acai Bowl Including Toppings?
How long is a piece of string? There are so many available options but to keep it basic, here is an idea of the topping calories:
Toasted granola ½ cup @ 200 calories
2 tablespoons of coconut unsweetened yoghurt @ 60 calories
½ cup of sliced fresh fruit @ 60 calories
1 tablespoon of desiccated coconut @ 45 calories
teaspoon of honey @ 21 calories
= 386 calories approx
Up to 696 calories approximately for a home made acai bowl, with 386 calories in the topping!
If you want to enjoy these delicious acai bowls frequently, ditch the extras some of the time!
Keep your commercially prepared acai bowls to a once a week treat if you are watching your diet!
Acai Bowl Calories – the Value of Nutrition versus Empty Calories
In human nutrition, the term empty calories applies to foods and beverages composed primarily or solely of sugar, fats or oils, or alcohol-containing beverages.
These supply food energy but little to no other nutrition in the way of vitamins, minerals, protein, fibre, or essential fatty acids. Source:Wikipedia
The nutritional value of 100% pure unsweetened acai is nutrient dense which is why it is touted as a superfood.
Most nutritionists agree that although the nutrient value varies depending on the ingredients added, generally Acai Bowls are found to be high in fibre, rich in antioxidants, and vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, manganese, and potassium. Read more about the benefits here:
So now you have an idea how many calories in an Acai Bowl taking Acai Bowl calories into consideration is essential if you are watching your weight, however like all good things in life everything should be enjoyed in moderation.
You can view more info on acai bowls here or acai bowl recipes here
