Among the many fruits we come across in the market, or the local grocery store, is the tropical treasure, pineapples. These juicy, delicious fruits are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and enzymes that play a crucial role in helping the immune system fight pathogens and other infections. (Image Credit: Security/Pixabay)
Since the days of our forefathers, pineapples have been used for not only consumption but also treating several illnesses. It, therefore, shouldn’t come as a surprise when your doctor recommends you include pineapples in your diet.
But just how beneficial are pineapples to your health? Below, we look into a few health benefits they offer to the body.
1. Pineapples are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C
Pineapples are one of the fruits with the largest amount of Vitamin C. As a matter of fact, the US Department of Agriculture estimates that one cup of pineapples contains about 79g of Vitamin C – a value higher than the recommended amount for both men and women.
Vitamin C is involved in the formation of collagen, wound healing, and strengthening of the immune system. As such, it’s vital that your body has adequate Vitamin C at all times.
Pineapples are also known to be rich sources of flavonoids, which help in fighting against toxins and stressors.
2. Pineapples may help your digestion
You’ve probably heard that pineapples can help improve your digestion ; and that’s correct. Among other nutrients, pineapples contain the enzyme Bromelain which works to support your stomach breakdown of the proteins in your meals.
What’s more, Bromelain also helps relieve stomach aches, diarrhea, and heartburns. Additionally, the fiber and large amounts of water content in pineapples help reduce the risk of constipation.
3. Pineapples may reduce the risks of Cancer
This may come as a surprise, but pineapples actually have an anti-cancer compound in them, Bromelain. This mixture of enzymes fights inflammation in the body and hence hinders the spread of cancerous cells.
Several studies have linked Bromelain with the treatment of colorectal and colon cancer and the suppression of breast cancer cells.
That said, it’s no guarantee that pineapples will help your cancer treatment, however, you stand a better chance with it in your diet.
4. Pineapples promote healthy bone growth
This is one of the little-known facts about pineapples. Surprisingly, this tropical juice fruit contains high amounts of manganese, which is essential for bone growth. It also contains small amounts of Calcium, which is involved in the formation of collagen in the bones.
Furthermore, the bromalin in pineapples has been known to help in reducing arthritis pain for patients, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Pineapples may enhance weight loss
According to most health fitness experts and nutritionists, pineapples are among the best fruits to eat when looking to cut down some weight. This is because pineapples contain lower amounts of calories, don’t have saturated fats, and are rich in vitamins.
The enzyme bromalin in the fruit also helps break proteins, which in turn helps burn out belly fat. Moreover, it’s a good substitute for candy lovers, as its sweet taste helps satisfy your sweet tooth.
This way, you get to reduce your fat and calory intake.
Final thoughts
Pineapples are not only a sweet fruit, but also very nutritious and beneficial to the body. Besides the above benefits, it’s also good for your cardiac health, improves fertility, enhances your recovery speed and is excellent for the skin.
As scientists and nutritionists continue their research on the health benefits of pineapples, you have no reason to leave it out of your daily diet!