Pineapple is a delicious tropical fruit cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas. They are very versatile and can be eaten raw or cooked. You can use them in smoothies, salads, pizza etc…
They are also a great source of nutrition. Besides being tasty, pineapples also offer a wide range of health benefits. Here are some amazing health benefits of pineapples:
1. Pineapples can help prevent cancer
Pineapple is packed with Vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your body against free radical damage. Besides being rich in Vitamin C, they also contain bromelain. Bromelain has anti-antioxidant anti-inflammatory properties. Bromelain also plays an important role in killing cancer cells.
2. Pineapples are packed with water
Pineapples are packed with water that hydrates your body. The body hydration is important for your body to function properly and for good health. If you don’t drink enough water, you will feel very tired during the day. Hydration can help you feel less tired and boosts your energy levels. Hydration is also important for our skin that reflects our state of health. Dehydration is probably the most common cause of dry skin. Eating pineapples on a daily basis can keep your skin healthy and glowing.
3. Pineapples are loaded with antioxidants
This tasty fruit is packed with antioxidants that help keep us healthy. They are also known for their ability to promote health on a cellular level. Antioxidants play a significant role in repairing damaged cells. They help protect your body against many health problems, especially diseases caused by free radicals (like Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, fibrosis, and cancer). Free radicals can cause cardiovascular disease- the leading cause of death in the world.
4. Bromelain has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties
Bromelain has been shown to decrease pain and inflammation of arthritis. Because of their high bromelain content, pineapples have been shown to decrease inflammation and pain. Several studies have found that eating pineapples on a daily basis can help reduce pain and swelling. And even more, bromelain extract is a natural alternative to NSAIDs (anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs) for patients with arthritis.
5. Pineapple contains bromelain which is used to break down proteins
Bromelain is a digestive enzyme which specifically digests proteins. Unlike the pancreatic enzymes that help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, bromelain specifically digests proteins. This enzyme is effective over a very broad PH range and provides enzymatic activity in your stomach.
6. It helps keep your bones strong and healthy
Having enough Manganese in our bodies is important for healthy and strong bones. Pineapples are high in Manganese. Two cups of pineapples are enough to cover your Manganese intake for the entire day. It also helps keep connective tissues healthy.
7. Pineapple helps keep your heart healthy
Besides being rich in Vitamin C and fiber, this tasty fruit is also rich in potassium. Potassium can help keep the heart healthy and lower blood pressure. Various studies have found that people who consume pineapples on a daily basis are at lower risk of heart attack than people who don’t eat pineapples.