Pineapple is more than just a delicious tropical fruit- it offers significant health benefits as well. The Philippines is the second largest producer and exporter of pineapples in the world after Thailand. That’s why most, if not all, Filipinos already have an idea about this juicy fruit. This popular fruit that originated from South America, is packed with nutrients, antioxidants and other helpful compounds, such as enzymes that can fight inflammation and disease. Thus, pineapples have been linked to many health benefits, including aiding digestion, boosting immunity and speeding up recovery from surgery, among others.
If you are curious to know what can pineapples do to your body, here are some health benefits of pineapple:
1. Rich in Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for growth and development, a healthy immune system and aiding the absorption of iron from the diet. Especially during this pandemic, one should prioritize foods that are rich in Vitamin C to support our immune system and provide antioxidant benefits.
2. Can ease digestion
Pineapples contain a group of digestive enzymes known as bromelain, that breaks down protein. This may aid digestion, especially in those with pancreatic insufficiency.
3. May ease symptoms of Arthritis
The anti-inflammatory properties of pineapple may provide short-term symptom relief for people with common types of arthritis. In fact, research from as early as the 1960s shows that bromelain was used to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, a type of arthritis that involves inflammation of the joints.
4. Promotes healthy bones
Pineapples are also rich in Manganese, a naturally occurring mineral that aids growth, maintains a healthy metabolism and has antioxidant properties. In fact, one cup (165 grams) of pineapple chunks contains 76% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI).
5. May speed recovery after surgery or strenuous exercise
Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain, pineapples may reduce the time it takes to recover from surgery or exercise. Bromelain may reduce inflammation, swelling, bruising and pain that occurs after surgery. Moreover, bromelain’s anti-inflammatory properties may also aid recovery after strenuous exercise by reducing tissue inflammation.
Don’t underestimate this tropical fruit. Even though some of us tend to overlook pineapples while grocery shopping, this nutrition information is intended to help you think twice and include this fruit in the list on your next grocery purchase. Nourish your body with beneficial food items such as this fruit and your body will thank you for it!
AA VI Cielo Katrina M. Mabalot
References:
1. “Pineapple: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits” from https://www.livescience.com/45487-pineapple-nutrition.html
2. “12 Facts about the Pineapple Industry in the Philippines” from https://www.ipsingredis.com/markets/12-facts-about-the-pineapple-industry-in-the-philippines/#:~:text=The%20Philippines%20is%20the%20second,and%20Dole)%20are%20found%20here.
3. “8 Impressive Health Benefits of Pineapple” from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-pineapple
4. “8 Scientific Health Benefits of Pineapple” from https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/8-reasons-eat-pineapple/
