However, very little research exists on pineapple, making it difficult to verify its possible effects.
Slightly more research has been performed on bromelain.
Yet, some studies have yielded conflicting results.
Cathy Scola / Getty Images
Some of the available research on pineapple and bromelain is outlined in the sections below.
May Improve Digestion
Pineapple is believed to have positive effects on digestion.
This may be due to the fiber and digestive enzymes found in it.
A study of mice revealed a potential balancing effect of pineapple on thegut microbiome.
The positive results were attributed to thedigestive enzymesfound in bromelain.
May Decrease Pain
Bromelain has been taken for pain in various forms of integrative medicine.
It is thought to act onbradykinin, a pain mediator.
Bromelain may also be helpful for pain and inflammation sparked by surgery.
Research suggests that bromelain reduces postoperative swelling and, thus, pain.
May Help With Fatty Liver
High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) is a risk factor forfatty liver disease.
Pineapple may reduce this risk.
According to one study of rats, pineapple has antioxidant and cholesterol-lowering properties.
In the study, the rats ate a high-cholesterol diet and pineapple for eight weeks.
Overall, pineapple was associated with decreased characteristics of fatty liver.
Other animal and lab studies have found similar results.
However, unfortunately, human studies on pineapple for fatty liver don’t exist yet.
The above study was conducted in animals; the results should be considered preliminary.
Vascular health is essential for circulation and blood flow.
Pineapple may improve vascular health by reducing the build-up of cholesterol andlipidsin blood vessels.
In one study, pineapple reduced structural changes in theaortasof rats who ate a high-cholesterol diet for eight weeks.
Another study of rats concluded that pineapple possesses antioxidant and lipid-lowering properties that are helpful for vascular health.
Again, however, there is virtually no research on pineapple’s effects on the vascular health of humans.
These studies of rats show promising results, but more research is necessary.
May Reduce Inflammation
According to lab and animal studies, pineapple may reduceinflammation.
Bromelain (a bioactive substance in pineapple) has been found to inhibit inflammation in various test tube studies.
However, scientists are unsure how bromelain does this.
Pineapple consumption in rats has also been associated with reduced inflammation.
In one study, researchers fed rats pineapple plus a high-cholesterol diet for eight weeks.
The pineapple reduced inflammatory markers that would normally be seen in rats on a high-cholesterol diet.
These results suggest that pineapple may have a heart-protective effect.
However, more research is necessary to prove that these effects are possible in humans, not just rats.
Pineapple Nutrition
Pineapple can be eaten and enjoyed as part of a well-balanced diet in several ways.
It may be used raw, grilled, or roasted.
It’s often found in smoothies, popsicles, baked goods, salsas, beverages, and more.
Pineapple is a source ofmacronutrients,micronutrients(vitamins and minerals), andfiber.
It also contains bioactive compounds, like bromelain.
Pineapple nutrition per 100 g/one-half cup
People following specific diets may need to limit or avoid pineapple.
Although rare, it is possible to be allergic to pineapple or its bioactive ingredient, bromelain.
Avoid pineapple and bromelain if you’re allergic to them.
This may be especially true if you have too much.
Ingesting too much bromelain may cause the following:
Be careful when consuming bromelain while pregnant orbreastfeeding.
It is unknown whether bromelain is safe while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Additional precautions and interactions may exist for bromelain or pineapple.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says it does.
Summary
Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a tropical fruit that contains the active ingredient bromelain.
Both pineapple and bromelain are thought to provide various health benefits.
However, more research is necessary in many areas to determine their potential uses.
You should also avoid pineapple if you are allergic to it.
Talk with a healthcare provider to learn more about pineapple.
Canned pineapple should be avoided, however.
Some experts also worry that the sugar content of pineapple may upset some dogs' stomachs.
The overall message is that giving your dog fresh pineapple is OK, but only in small amounts.
Cutting a pineapple may seem daunting, but it’s easier than it seems.
To cut a pineapple:
Pineapple is full of nutrients that are important to your health.
Pineapple contains macronutrients and micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals.
Like other fruits, pineapple is also a good source of fiber, which is vital forgut health.
For most people, pineapple can be a part of a well-balanced diet.
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