The pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a tropical plant with an edible fruit and the most economically significant plant in the family Bromeliaceae.
Now let’s look at some health benefits of this delicious fruit.
-Rich in antioxidants (pineapple is a rich source of flavonoids, which plays an important part in fighting oxidative stress in the body).
-Reduces arthritis pain (pineapple has the ability to reduce the inflammation of joints and muscles particularly those associated with arthritis. It contains a rare proteolytic enzyme called bromelain, which primarily aids in breaking down complex proteins and has anti-inflammatory effects as well. Bromelain can also help prevent the risk of osteoarthritis).
-Treat sinus and boost immunity (rich is vitamin C and bromelain that helps in reducing illnesses and boosting the immune system. Also preventing and treating respiratory illnesses and reducing the phlegm and mucus build up in the sinus cavities and respiratory tracts).
-Helps with inflammation (as high in vitamin C content assists in healing wounds and injuries quickly. Pineapple also has anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and fibrinolytic effects making it very efficient in case of internal or external injuries.)
-Helps with digestion (eating pineapple regularly can help protect from conditions like constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome).
-Anticancer potential (Pineapple has been directly linked to preventing cancers of the mouth, throat, and breast as it is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin A, beta-carotene, bromelain, flavonoids, and manganese).
Side effects.
The side effects are mainly due to the high proportions of bromelain and vitamin C present in it. Common side effects are:
-Vomiting
-Nausea
-Headaches
-Diarrhea
-Anaphylactic shock
-Skin rashes
-Swelling of mouth and cheek
Risks
-Pesticides: Often used to kill fungi and harmful organisms, pesticides can also affect your health if you purchase pineapples from an unreliable source.
-Gastroesophageal reflux diseases (GERD): People suffering from GERD may have an increase in symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation if too much of it is eaten.
-Kidney diseases: Pineapple contains potassium, which is healthy, however, it can lead to negative effects if the intake of the fruit is not limited to certain kidney diseases.
-Kidney diseases: Pineapple contains potassium, which is healthy, but it can lead to negative effects if the intake of the fruit is not limited to certain kidney diseases.
-Heart disorders: People on medication of beta-blockers should consume pineapple in moderation.
-Interaction with medications: Persons on medications like anticoagulants, blood thinners, insomnia drugs, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines may be advised to limit or avoid pineapple products, as they may interfere with these medications.
-Pregnancy: Bromelain has been known to stimulate menstruation, so pregnant women should avoid eating too much of this fruit in order to prevent an increased chance of a miscarriage.
-Sensitivity: Because of bromelain, lips, gums, and tongue may experience some tenderness or sensitivity if you eat too much.
After reading this, if you are having second thoughts of any kind, do remember that the key is to eat in moderation to get the best results.