Pineapple is not only a wonderful tropical fruit, but it also has numerous health benefits. Research indicates that it has been utilised in folk medicine since antiquity.
Pineapple is available fresh, frozen, tinned, and dried, offering it a year-round alternative in the United States. While canned pineapple is convenient, consider types packed in their natural juices rather than syrup to avoid additional sugar.
No matter how you consume it—grilled, fresh, frozen, or combined in a smoothie—incorporating pineapple into your diet for its health advantages is a wise decision.
Pineapple is a healthy snack option due to its vitamin and nutrient content.
Here are eight pineapple health benefits:
High in Vitamin C.
“The standout nutrient in pineapple is vitamin C, which supports the immune system and provides antioxidant benefits,” says Jackie Newgent, RDN, gourmet nutritionist and author of The All-Natural Diabetes Cookbook.
One cup of pineapple contains 78.9 milligrammes (mg) of vitamin C, which exceeds the recommended daily requirement for adult women (75 mg) and is close to the recommendation for men (90 mg).
Vitamin C promotes growth and healing throughout the body, including collagen synthesis for healthy skin, as well as wound repair and iron absorption.
May Improve Weight Loss
While the evidence for pineapple’s effect on metabolism and weight loss is weak, animal studies have revealed that pineapple juice may aid reduce fat production and boost fat breakdown.
More investigations in humans are required to corroborate these findings.
Pineapple is an excellent snack choice because it is low in calories, abundant in essential vitamins and minerals, and has no saturated or trans fats.
It can also help satisfy a sweet appetite, potentially lowering calorie intake and promoting weight loss.
Promotes digestion
Pineapple includes bromelain, a group of enzymes that help reduce inflammation, nasal swelling, and promote wound healing.
It has been related to improved digestion and has long been used in Central and South American countries to treat digestive issues. Bromelain may also help alleviate the symptoms of diarrhoea.
Promotes healthy bones
Manganese, like calcium, is vital for keeping strong bones. Pineapple is one of the richest sources of manganese, with a single cup providing around 76% of the necessary daily dose.
Manganese may help prevent osteoporosis and increase overall bone and mineral density.
Packed with Disease-fighting antioxidants
Pineapple has high levels of antioxidants such as phenolics, flavonoids, and vitamin C. Antioxidants aid in the battle against inflammation and free radicals in the body, which can cause cellular damage and lead to conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and vision impairments.
Cancer-Fighting Properties
While there is no foolproof strategy to prevent cancer, consuming a diet rich in antioxidants, such as those found in pineapple, can help lower the risk. Diets and blood concentrations high in antioxidants have been linked to a lower risk of cancer.
Fits in an anti-inflammatory diet
Excessive inflammation can cause diseases such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, cancer, and Alzheimer’s.
A diet high in anti-inflammatory foods, such as pineapple, can help lower inflammation in the body. The anti-inflammatory benefits of pineapple are due to the presence of bromelain.
Boosts immunity
Pineapple may increase immunity, particularly during a cold. One study discovered that youngsters who ate canned pineapple had less viral and bacterial infections than those who did not throughout a nine-week period.
Eating one to two cans (140 to 280 grammes) of pineapple every day may lower the risk of illness or shorten its duration.
