Pineapple ෴ අන්නාසි
Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is an incredibly delicious and healthy tropical fruit.It originated in South America, where early European explorers named it after its resemblance to a pinecone.This popular fruit is packed with nutrients, antioxidants and other helpful compounds, such as enzymes that can fight inflammation and disease.Pineapple and its compounds have been linked to many health benefits, including aiding digestion, boosting immunity and speeding up recovery from surgery, among others.
Here are 8 impressive health benefits of pineapple.
Loaded With Nutrients
Pineapples are low in calories but have an incredibly impressive nutrient profile.
Contains Disease-Fighting Antioxidants
Not only are pineapples rich in nutrients, they are also loaded with healthy antioxidants.Antioxidants are molecules that help your body combat oxidative stress.
Its Enzymes Can Ease Digestion
Pineapples contain a group of digestive enzymes known as bromelain.They function as proteases, which break down protein molecules into their building blocks, such as amino acids and small peptides.
May Help Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Cancer is a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth.Its progression is commonly linked to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Several studies have shown that pineapple and its compounds may reduce the risk of cancers. This is because they may minimize oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
May Boost Immunity and Suppress Inflammation
Pineapples have been a part of traditional medicine for centuries.They contain a wide variety of vitamins, minerals and enzymes like bromelain that may collectively boost immunity and suppress inflammation.
May Ease Symptoms of Arthritis.
Since pineapples contain bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory properties, it’s commonly thought that they may provide pain relief for those with inflammatory arthritis.
May Speed Recovery After Surgery or Strenuous Exercise.
Eating pineapples may reduce the time it takes to recover from surgery or exercise.This is largely due to the anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain.
Delicious and Easy to Add to the Diet
Pineapples are sweet, convenient and easy to incorporate into your diet.
Here are a few easy recipe ideas that use fresh pineapple:
- Breakfast: Pineapple, blueberry and Greek yogurt smoothie
- Salad: Tropical roast chicken, almond, blueberry and pineapple salad
- Lunch: Homemade Hawaiian burgers (beef burgers with a pineapple ring)
- Dinner: Baked ham with pineapple and cherries
- Dessert: Pineapple fruit salad
