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What are the Health Benefits of Pineapple?

K. Testa
K. Testa

Many people around the world are aware of the health benefits of pineapple. According to most nutrition experts, some of its health advantages are that it aids digestion, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, and is even believed to lower blood pressure in some people. Pineapple is a low-calorie fruit that contains several beneficial nutrients. It is widely available and versatile in terms of its uses as part of a healthy diet.

The pineapple, or Ananas comosus, is a tropical fruit that is available throughout the year in most places. It is thought to have been discovered on the Caribbean island of Guadalupe in the late 1400s. Today, pineapples are grown in several countries, including China, Thailand, and Mexico, as well as in the U.S. state of Hawaii. The fruit is available in many forms, such as fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and as juice.

Pineapple might help with the nausea that accompanies morning sickness.
Pineapple might help with the nausea that accompanies morning sickness.

Pineapple contains manganese, known for its antioxidant and energy-providing properties. It also contains a high level of vitamin C, an antioxidant that also supports the immune system. Additional nutrients include vitamin B1, copper, and dietary fiber. One cup (155 grams) of pineapple contains 75 calories. Its high water content makes it a popular diet food, since eating a small amount can usually satisfy one’s hunger. It does, however, contain a somewhat high amount of sugar, which could be a concern for people trying to control their sugar intake. Some people might also find that the pineapple’s acidity disagrees with them.

Pineapple may help lower blood pressure.
Pineapple may help lower blood pressure.

Among the health benefits of pineapple is the fact that it contains bromelain, an enzyme that is assumed to aid protein digestion. Consuming pineapple either during or after a meal is thought to aid in overall digestion. Some people also claim that pineapple juice can help prevent nausea associated with morning or motion sickness. Bromelain is also thought to help people avoid strokes and high blood pressure by inhibiting the formation of blood clots.

Pineapple is frequently added to fruit salad.
Pineapple is frequently added to fruit salad.

Another one of the health benefits of pineapple is its potential to treat minor pain. For example, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve strained or sprained muscles. Some medical experts also claim that bromelain derived from pineapple can also help relieve chronic pain, such as the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. As of 2010, more scientific studies were needed, however, since this pain treatment had not been confirmed by any governing medical body. Furthermore, many of the proposed benefits of bromelain are a result of taking a supplement in a concentrated form, not just from eating pineapple.

Pineapple can be prepared in numerous ways, making it a popular ingredient in various types of recipes. People often eat it alone or as part of a fruit salad, but it can also be combined with other ingredients, such as meat and seafood, to create interesting dishes with a tropical flavor. Including it as an ingredient in smoothies is another popular way for people to enjoy the health benefits of pineapple.

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    • Pineapple might help with the nausea that accompanies morning sickness.
      By: Adam Gregor
      Pineapple might help with the nausea that accompanies morning sickness.
    • Pineapple may help lower blood pressure.
      By: Okea
      Pineapple may help lower blood pressure.
    • Pineapple is frequently added to fruit salad.
      By: pilipphoto
      Pineapple is frequently added to fruit salad.