Pineapple
Pineapples contain many nutrients including manganese, vitamin C, copper and folate, vitamins A, several B vitamins, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium phosphorus and sodium. They also contain both soluble and insoluble fibre.
Pineapple is also rich in Bromelain, a mixture of proteolytic enzymes and non-enzymatic substances. Many of the most recognised health benefits of pineapples are from Bromelain.
Modern Uses and health benefits of pineapples
The fibre, potassium, and vitamin C content in bromelain support heart health and modulate blood pressure.
The antioxidants vitamin C and beta-carotene can assist in asthma prevention, cancer prevention, can prevent or delay vision problems such as cataracts and macular degeneration and provide many other health benefits.
Soluble / insoluble fibre and water content help maintain intestinal health, prevent constipation and promote regularity, fibre also assists in glucose control.
Vitamin C will also help build immunity and assist in prevention and recovery from respiratory infections, and assist wound healing.
Manganese is a trace mineral known to benefit bone growth and repair.
The enzyme content helps digestion via stimulation of gastric and digestive juices.
Pineapple is said to increase collagen synthesis. Collagen supports skin elasticity, blood vessel walls, organs and bones.
Pineapples are low in kilojoules, fat-free, cholesterol-free and low in sodium. They are high in carbohydrates but have a medium range GI and do not normally have a major impact on blood sugar levels in healthy patients.
Bromelain
Extracted from both the stem and fruit of the pineapple, bromelain has widely recognised anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic and fibrinolytic actions; anti-cancer activity and immunomodulatory effects. It is also seen to help in wound healing and circulation issues. It can increase the bioavailability of certain antibiotics. It is used therapeutically worldwide to treat conditions such as sinusitis, bronchitis, arthritis/ osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disorders such as angina pectoris, and general inflammation associated with other conditions such as allergies and injuries. It has also been used in wound debridement. Its mechanisms of action however are not fully understood.
Using pineapple in the diet
It can be used as an ingredient in of stews and casseroles e.g. pork and pineapple, sweet and sour dishes
Chopped up pineapple can be kept in a covered container in the fridge for snacking.
Grill pineapple slices for snacking.
Use pineapple in kebabs along with a meat of choice or just with vegetables/fruit such as cherry tomatoes, capsicum, mushrooms and red onions.
Eat as part of a fruit salad for breakfast or desert
Eat as part of a salad along with walnuts, pecans, cheese and a light balsamic or citrus dressing