The Numerous Health Benefits of Pineapple
Don’t be afraid of pineapple’s spiny skin. Pineapple is sufficiently sweet to equal most confections — and it packs much more medical advantages. Julia Zumpano, RD, a registered dietitian, discusses the health benefits of this delicious tropical fruit.
Pineapple is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent source of nutrients. One cup of chopped pineapple will provide:
C vitamin: Vitamin C, which aids in tissue growth and repair, will make up about one-third of your recommended daily intake. Vitamin C boosts your immune system and may also aid in the fight against arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.
Manganese: More than one hundred percent of the recommended daily amount of this vital trace element can be found in pineapple. Bone formation, immune function, and metabolism are all aided by manganese.
Fiber: One cup of pineapple provides nearly 10% of your daily fiber needs. According to Zumpano, fiber can help you avoid hunger and is essential for a healthy digestive system.
Vitamin B12: A healthy amount of thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, and folate can be found in pineapple. These supplements assist your body with handling energy from the food you eat. Additionally, they are necessary for the creation of new red blood cells, which transport oxygen to your tissues and organs.
Diverse minerals: Copper, potassium, and magnesium are just a few of the essential minerals found in pineapple.
Promotes tissue healing According to Zumpano, “Pineapple is the only food known to contain bromelain,” an enzyme that aids in tissue and skin healing. Bromelain seems to create substances that battle in agony and expanding.”
Consuming pineapple’s bromelain may also aid in wound or surgery-related skin healing.
Combats inflammation According to Zumpano, “Inflammation is a natural process that occurs in our bodies to help fight illness,” but “too much inflammation, especially over long periods, can lead to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.” Bromelain’s ability to reduce inflammation and slow the growth of some types of cancer may be aided by its anti-inflammatory properties.
