Pineapple

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Pineapple (Ananas comosus)

Snapshot

Tropical fruit rich in vitamin C, bromelain, and antioxidants that support digestion, immune function, and inflammation balance.

 

What It Is

Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a sweet, tropical fruit belonging to the Bromeliaceae family. Beyond its culinary use, pineapple is valued in supplements for its enzyme content and immune-supportive nutrients.

Where It Comes From

Native to South America, pineapple is now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. Both the juicy fruit and its stem are used in health products—especially as a source of bromelain.

Key Nutrients & Compounds

  • Vitamin C – Supports immune defense and collagen production.
  • Bromelain – A proteolytic enzyme mixture that aids protein digestion and may reduce inflammation.
  • Manganese – Important for bone health and energy metabolism.
  • Polyphenols & Antioxidants – Help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Health Benefits

Digestive Support – Bromelain helps break down proteins and may ease digestive discomfort.

Anti-Inflammatory Action – Studies suggest bromelain may support recovery from injury, swelling, and sinus issues.

Immune Boosting – High vitamin C content strengthens natural defenses.

Joint & Muscle Comfort – Bromelain has been investigated for reducing soreness and promoting recovery in athletes.

Recommended Dosage

Fresh fruit/juice: 1–2 cups daily provides vitamin C and natural enzymes.

Supplemental bromelain: Typically standardized to 200–800 mg daily, divided into doses depending on purpose (digestion vs. inflammation).
Always follow product-specific labeling.

How To Use It

Eat fresh or juiced pineapple for nutrition. For concentrated enzyme benefits, use bromelain capsules extracted from the stem. Pair with protein-rich meals for enhanced digestion.

Who Should Use It

Individuals seeking digestive support, athletes wanting faster recovery, those needing an immune boost, or people interested in natural anti-inflammatory aid.

Possible Interactions or Cautions

May interact with blood-thinning medications, antibiotics, and sedatives. Excess intake can cause mouth irritation due to bromelain. Those allergic to pineapple or latex-cross reactive fruits should avoid it.

Final Thoughts

More than a sweet fruit, pineapple offers unique enzyme activity and nutritional benefits. Whether consumed fresh or as a bromelain supplement, it contributes to digestion, recovery, and immunity.

Scientific Studies

Brien S, Lewith G, Walker A, Hicks SM, Middleton D. Bromelain as a treatment for osteoarthritis: a review of clinical studies. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2004.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15298760

Kausar H, Jahan N, Moin S, et al. Bromelain: methods of extraction, pharmacological actions and therapeutic applications. Biomed Pharmacother. 2021.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33421790

Hale LP, Greer PK, Trinh CT, Gottfried MR. Treatment with oral bromelain decreases colonic inflammation in the IL-10-deficient murine model of inflammatory bowel disease. Clin Immunol. 2005.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15721885