Pineapple

Pineapple 

 

 

Pineapple are tropical fruits. It has an impressive nutrient profile in addition to a delicious taste. Pineapple is packed with several beneficial nutrients, antioxidants, and plant compounds. Pineapple aids in boosting immunity, proper digestion and fast recovery from surgery. Nutritional facts of pineapple per cup (158 grams): 

 

Vitamin A, vitamin K, zinc, calcium, and phosphorus are also present in small amounts in pineapple. 

 

Health Benefits of Pineapple:

 

Pineapples are loaded with healthy antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals, hence decreasing the oxidative stress. These free radicals interact with the body’s cells and damage it causing chronic inflammation, leading to many harmful diseases. Pineapples are especially high in flavonoids and phenolic acids. The antioxidants present in pineapple are bound, allowing it to survive in harsh conditions in the body and produce longer lasting effects. Pineapple contains a group of digestive enzymes, bromelain. They break protein molecules into amino acids and small peptides. This causes better absorption of protein across the small intestine. This is especially beneficial for people, whose pancreas cannot make sufficient digestive enzymes. Bromelain can break tough meat proteins, so is commercially used as meat tenderizer. 

Cancer is characterised by uncontrolled cell growth. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation enhances its progression. The compounds present in pineapple may reduce the risk of cancer by reducing oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Test-tube studies have shown that bromelain present in pineapple may help fight cancer. Bromelain was shown to suppress the growth of breast cancer cells and it also stimulated cell death. Bromelain suppress cancer in the skin, gastric system, and colon. Some test tube and animal studies suggest that bromelain may stimulate the immune system to produce white blood cells for suppressing and eliminating cancer cells.

 Pineapples have been a part of traditional medicines for centuries. Pineapples are loaded with several vitamins, minerals and enzymes that boost immunity and suppress inflammation. A study linked consumption of pineapple among children with enhanced immunity status. According to some other studies, bromelain can reduce markers of inflammation. It is believed that these anti-inflammatory properties aid the immune system. 

Millions of people are affected by arthritis per year all over the world. There are several types of arthritis, but most of them involve inflammation in the joints. Bromelain present in pineapple is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it may provide pain relief for those suffering from inflammatory arthritis. Several studies were done to check the effectiveness of bromelain for treatment of arthritis. One such study reported that consumption of supplements containing bromelain helped relieve pain as effectively as arthritis medicine like diclofenac. Another study concluded that bromelain has the ability to treat osteoarthritis. It was reported that bromelain relieves arthritis symptoms, especially in the short term. Although the results are impressive, longer studies are needed before recommending bromelain to relieve arthritis symptoms. 

The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain helps reduce the recovery time needed after surgery or strenuous exercises. Several studies suggested that bromelain may reduce the inflammation, swelling, bruising and pain that often occurs after surgery. Reduction in the markers of inflammation was also reported. Strenuous exercise causes soreness in the muscle tissues due to inflammation. Due to this, affected muscles cannot produce as much force and are sore for up to 3 days. Bromelain can speed up the recovery of damage by reducing inflammation around the damaged muscle tissue. Many studies reported that bromelain can speed up the recovery from damage caused by exercise. 

Moreover, pineapples are sweet, delicious, and easy to incorporate in your diet. They are also affordable and available in the market all round the year. You can easily make smoothies and salads from pineapple.

 

Downsides of Eating Pineapple:

 

There are a few potential health issues related to pineapple consumption:

1. Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, can cause indigestion and diarrhea in some individuals.
2. Pineapple can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms include itching, hives, and difficulty breathing.
3. Pineapple contains high levels of vitamin C, which can cause diarrhea, nausea, and stomach upset in some people if consumed in large amounts.
4. Pineapple contains a compound called bromelain which can interact with certain medications and supplements, it is best to consume it with caution if you are taking any medication or supplement.
5. Pineapple is relatively high in sugar, so eating too much of it may contribute to weight gain, blood sugar imbalances, or other health issues.
6. Pineapple is rich in Vitamin C and bromelain, it should be avoided by people with certain blood disorders, kidney problems or taking blood thinning medication.

It's important to note that most people can safely eat pineapple as part of a healthy diet. However, if you have any concerns or are at risk for any of the above conditions, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider before adding pineapple to your diet.