Pineapple offers more than just a sweet flavor

 

Tropical fruit offers more than just a sweet flavor, Pineapple contains a high amount of vitamins and minerals, and it also contains a unique enzyme called bromelain. Researchers have studied the effect of bromelain on health, and bromelain can help lower inflammation in the body. This may be one reason why pineapple has been used for many years in Central and South America as a digestive aid.

Here is a closer look at the health benefits of pineapple

#1 – Vitamin C

One nutrient pineapple is particularly high in is vitamin C. Two slices of pineapple, which is about 4 ounces, provides 50% of the Daily Value of vitamin C for the day. Many large research studies have found that a higher intake of vitamin C is associated with a lowered risk of heart disease. One of vitamin’s roles in the body is to act as an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect cells from damage from free radicals and may help lower damage to cells caused by carcinogens.

Vitamin C is also needed to make collagen, which is needed for healthy skin, teeth and gums. Vitamin C also has a role in boosting immune function; vitamin C can help stimulate the production of white blood cells.

Male adults 19 and older need at least 90 mg of vitamin C per day, and adult females 19 years and older need at least 75 mg per day. Reaching daily vitamin C needs can be easy if you add pineapple in your diet.

#2 – Manganese

Manganese is a trace mineral that is usually not in the spot light. However, getting enough manganese in the diet is important. One cup of pineapple provides about 76% of the Daily Value for manganese.

Manganese is part of an enzyme that is works as a powerful antioxidant in the body. Manganese also activates many enzymes involved with carbohydrate, protein and cholesterol metabolism. Manganese also has a role in bone and collagen formation.

#3 – Trace amounts of other nutrients

Pineapple is a source for many other nutrients including B vitamins, vitamin A, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and copper. Although the amount of these nutrients is not as high as vitamin C or manganese, eating pineapple can still contribute to your daily needs of these nutrients.

#4 – Bromelain

Pineapple is part of the bromeliad family and is a source for the enzyme bromelain. This enzyme is used to break down proteins and is often an ingredient in digestive enzyme supplements. It is also why pineapple has been used for centuries as a digestive aid.

Bromelain has other health benefits besides helping to break down proteins, according to several research studies. Bromelain appears to help lower inflammation and swelling in some instances, particularly after surgery. Bromelain may also help relieve conditions such as tendonitis, sprains and strains.

Some studies, but not all, also suggest bromelain may help reduce mucus build up in the nose and sinuses or relieve inflammation associated with some allergies. Pineapple is a natural source of bromelain; speak with a physician if you are considering taking bromelain because there are precautions with taking bromelain as a supplement.

#5 – What about the sugar content?

Like most fruit, pineapple has a relatively high amount of sugar. Two slices of fresh pineapple provide about 10 grams of sugar. Does this mean pineapple should be avoided because of the sugar? A 2013 study from the BMJ concluded that eating more whole fruits was associated with a lower risk for type 2 diabetes, even though fruits are a natural source of sugar