This is a guest contribution by Sarah Cardona.
The benefits list of this spiny fruit is quite long but here is some information that suggests we should include it in our diet.
Pineapples improve respiratory health and stimulate weight loss are just two benefits. Bromelain found in the pineapple is a compound which has links to being able to reduce inflammation and improve gut health.
The word “pineapple” in the English language was first recorded in 1398 and was originally used to describe the reproductive organs of conifer trees, now called pine cones. It was European explorers who came in contact with the fruit in the plantations of the Caribbean. Nowadays you can find pineapples all year round and grace tables all over the world. Most countries now call then “ananas” while we still use the word pineapple.
Made up of 86% water and 13% carbs with almost no fat or protein. The vitamins and nutrients consist of magnesium, calcium, potassium, Vitamin C, B6, beta-carotene as well as soluble and insoluble fibre, and of course bromelain.
Bromelain is the extract from the fruit and the stem and consists of different proteinases, which are good anti-inflammatory agents. Consuming all fruit and vegetables are a benefit to one’s health, decreasing risks of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, giving us lower weight and more energy.
Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme and helps to improve gut health. The enzyme is capable of breaking down meat proteins and you can tenderise meat with pineapple juice. We have seen pineapple served with cheese, for the same reason to help with digestion and especially to help with indigestion after a steak. It promotes the release of gastric and digestive juices to help food break down. Also helpful in mucus buildup and elimination from the body.
So whatever your age, enjoy some pineapple as it is, or start adding it to your green juice.
Sarah Cardona is a qualified Natural Juice Therapist. She studied juice therapy and nutrition, biology, physiology. Sarah is register with the Complimentary Medical Association. You can follow or contact Sarah on her Juice Delights facebook page.
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