Native to the Europe and originally a delicacy of the noble, Pineapple has a tropical flavor with balanced sweetness and tart. Pineapple got its name due to its resemble with pine cones. Spiny from outside, it is a nutritionally rich fruit with several benefits for a multitude of health conditions.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Pineapple is a storehouse of many nutrients, vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, manganese, thiamine, dietary fibre (cellulose), folate, beta- carotene and calcium. It comprises of 86% of water and 13% carbohydrates suggesting to be almost zero on fat. Low on sodium, it serves as a source of small portion of oxalates as well. The glycemic index of pineapple ranges from 45-66, that makes it a good option for diabetics as well.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF PINEAPPLE
1 . Strengthens Immune System
Pineapple is found to be the only rich source of bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, enriched with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It helps in reducing swelling and bruising. Research studies have proved that bromelain strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammation.
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2 . Prevents Asthma
Rich source of beta- carotene and Vitamin C (enriched with flavonoids) , pineapple is amongst the recommended fruits for asthma patients. Flavonoids help to increase the lung capacity and relieve respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema.
3 . Builds Bone Strength
Enriched with manganese, pineapple provides strength to your bones. An essential trace mineral, manganese helps in building and repairing bone and connective tissue. One cup of this fruit provides close to 70% of the daily recommended intake of the mineral.
4 . Prevents Eye Diseases
Enriched with beta-carotene, pineapples have been found to be beneficial for preventing eye related diseases. It helps in preventing macular degeneration (featured with loss of vision) in elders.
5 . Aids Fertility
Pineapple core consumed for a week was found to help implantation. It improves the uterine lining and helps to fight the endometriosis related inflammation. Bromelain, the core enzyme of the fruit is a mild blood thinner as well and is believed to assist the process. Additionally, it has also been found to improve the quality and amount of the cervical mucus in females and aid pregnancy.
6 . Prevents Cancer
Good source of powerful antioxidants such as anthocyanins and bromelain, pineapples have been found to have anticancer properties. Bromelain was found to possess potent anti-tumour properties (comparable to anti cancer drugs) and showcases selective toxicity. It is also beneficial for preventing other major lifestyle disorders such as heart diseases and obesity.
Ways To Use
-Freshly prepared juice of pineapple is the best way to consume it. In order to aid digestion, donot strain as it leftover is rich in fibre.
-Add them in salads, smoothies, yoghut, bakery and even dishes.
-Cut pineapples, freeze at 5 degrees; This will help retain its nutritional profile for at least 6 days
-Finely chopped pineapple can also be used as a side dish along with the main course dishes
So here after, make sure you pick this fruit, add it to your grocery bucket, enjoy it in your daily servings and reap its nutritional benefits. Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy with 1mg.com!