5 reasons to eat pineapple
Pineapple is a big, juicy, yellow, and tropical fruit that has a sweet and tart flavor. But besides being yummy, it also holds several medicinal benefits, which is what made it a popular choice in folk medicine. Plus, you can use it to prepare lip-smacking savory and sweet dishes. Here are a few reasons you should make pineapple a part of your diet.
Here is what our expert says
- Pineapple is a rich source of vitamin C, the enzyme bromelain, and antioxidants called flavonoids.
- They are great for post-workout diets because of their high water and electrolyte content, natural sugars, and bromelain.
- Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme that helps reduce the inflammatory proteins after exercise and during recovery after surgery.
- However, it should be avoided in pregnancy and in those with bleeding disorders.
It has disease-fighting antioxidants
Free radicals are responsible for aging, a weakened immune system, and several diseases, such as cancer. Pineapples are rich in antioxidants that eliminate these free radicals from our bodies. Flavonoids and phenolic acids are the two types of antioxidants found in pineapples. Besides, the antioxidants found in pineapples are programmed to survive longer in our bodies and fight better against diseases.
It can provide pain relief in arthritis
Arthritis is a common health problem that causes inflammation of joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Pineapples contain a component called bromelain that has high anti-inflammatory properties. As per several studies, bromelain is known to offer pain relief to rheumatoid arthritis patients. Evidence suggests that pineapples can also treat osteoarthritis. However, most of these studies say that the benefits provided are short-term.
It can help in speedy recovery after surgery
Pineapples can also help in speedy recovery post-surgery, thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain. The component can decrease the pain, swelling, and inflammation that takes place post-surgery. Evidence has also shown that bromelain can reduce the markers of inflammation. Moreover, you can also consume pineapples after an arduous workout to combat the pain and soreness of the muscles.
Pineapples can aid digestion
Pineapples have digestive enzymes that work as proteases that help in breaking down the protein molecules into building blocks like amino acids. These molecules can be easily absorbed across your small intestine, further aiding digestion. Furthermore, the fruit is exceptionally good for people with pancreatic insufficiency, a health condition wherein the pancreas produces inadequate digestive enzymes.
Pineapples can boost your immunity
Pineapples include several vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that can enhance your immunity and lower down inflammation. As per a study, the possibility of developing a bacterial or viral infection was found to be significantly lower in kids who ate pineapple. Another study found that bromelain can aid in quicker recovery from sinus infections. The presence of vitamin C also strengthens the immune system.
