Pineapple is a sweet and juicy tropical fruit. Beyond being delicious to eat (or a mainstay in pina coladas), pineapples have a host of micro and macronutrients that can improve your immune system and general health.
Here are the main health benefits of pineapples.
High Vitamins and Mineral Content
Pineapples are very generous to your immune system with just one cup giving you 80% of your daily value of Vitamin C, which is more than you’d get from a single orange. It’s a great way to boost your immune system. They also contain folates, thiamin, magnesium, copper, vitamin B6, niacin, riboflavin, potassium, and iron.
Bromelain Is a Bro
One of the most notable enzymes in pineapples is bromelain. It can be used as a meat tenderizer in marinades since its acidity breaks apart meat proteins. It’s also what gives pineapples their recognizable texture and sourness, since bromelain slightly eats away at your tongue and cheek.
In suitable doses, bromelain helps with digestion by breaking up proteins. It has also been linked to arthritis relief and inflammatory relief.
Eases Digestion
While bromelain helps tenderize your meals so your body can break them down quicker, pineapple’s high fiber content helps you feel fuller and delays blood sugar spikes.
This is a mineral that is essential to the way our bodies metabolize food, keeps bones healthy, and clots our blood. One cup of pineapple has more than half of the amount we need every day, and you can find it in things like whole grains and black pepper.
Full of Antioxidants
Pineapples contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, that are antioxidants that can help protect your cells from chronic diseases and early decay.
Don’t Overeat
Pineapples are great for your health, but like many other foods you should eat them in moderation, since eating too much can produce digestive issues. You should also stay clear of unripe fruit because it can cause some throat irritation and diarrhea. Always stick to the recommended amount for a healthy diet.
