7 health benefits of pineapple
Fresh pineapple contains few calories but a long list of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial nutrients, including vitamin C and bromelain. Here are some other benefits that pineapple has in store.
Variety of vitamins and nutrients
Like all fruits and vegetables, pineapples contain a host of vitamins and minerals that contribute to a healthy diet — thiamine, riboflavin, B-vitamins, magnesium, potassium, folate and manganese, as well as antioxidants like beta-carotene.
Our bodies better absorb nutrients from food, so pineapple is a great way to boost your vitamin intake without relying on a supplement. Plus, one cup of pineapple contains only 82 calories and nearly three grams of dietary fiber.
Energy boosters and stress reducers
Pineapples contain valine and leucine, two amino acids that are essential to human health and critical for stress response, energy production, metabolism and muscle repair. They’re especially popular with bodybuilders and athletes for muscle recovery after a workout.
Digestive enzymes
Powerful bromelain enzymes help the body break down protein for easier digestion and absorption. Bromelain is especially beneficial for pregnant women suffering from morning sickness, and people with pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas does not make enough digestive enzymes on its own. The bromelain in pineapples is so powerful that many companies use pineapple-derived bromelain in their digestive supplements.
Good source of vitamin C
A serving of pineapple contains 131% of the recommended daily dose of vitamin C. Our bodies need vitamin C to produce collagen, which helps wounds heal and prevents premature aging. Vitamin C can also help the body absorb iron from plant-based diets, making it especially beneficial for vegetarians or vegans.
Tip: To get the most of pineapple’s vitamin C, eat it raw.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Pineapples are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can fight inflammation. The vitamin C and bromelain in pineapples have also shown to decrease pain and swelling in people with arthritis.
Bone-fortifying properties
Eating pineapple or drinking pineapple juice can strengthen your gums and teeth. The fruit contains calcium and manganese, essential minerals for strong teeth and bones. Potassium, also in pineapple, has been linked to improving and maintaining bone density.
Cancer-reducing properties
Bromelain is also thought to have cancer-fighting properties. Studies show the enzyme can stimulate the immune system and aid white blood cells in suppressing cancer cell growth.
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Katy Severson is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.
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