Health Benefits of Pineapples

Health Benefits of Pineapples

1.     Pineapples can help protect the hair and skin.

Sufficient vitamin C intake can help your body create and maintain collagen, an essential protein found in hair and skin. Also, a high vitamin C content helps heal wounds and injuries to the body rapidly. One cup of pineapples has 131 percent of the vitamin C daily requirements.

2.     Pineapples can help individuals fight infections.

Vitamin C is a powerful natural water-soluble antioxidant that helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and eliminates cancer-causing free radicals in the body. This is done by stimulating the activity of white blood cells and acting as an antioxidant to defend against the harmful effects of free radicals.

3.     Pineapples can help fight coughs and colds.

Aside from the fighting infections with vitamin C, pineapples contain a special enzyme called bromelain that is associated with reducing phlegm and mucus build up in the respiratory tracts and sinus cavities.

4.     Pineapples will improve digestive health.

Pineapples are formidable sources of fiber. Fiber can help prevent constipation, making one’s bowel movement easier to manage. The daily recommended dietary fiber intake for men and women are 38 grams and 25 grams, respectively.

5.     Pineapples can help maintain a healthy blood pressure.

Pineapples have great potassium to sodium ratio. A potassium-rich diet helps the blood vessels relax and maintains a healthy blood pressure. One cup of pineapples contains 180 milligrams of potassium, compared to 1.7 milligrams of sodium.

6.     Pineapples can help improve the heart’s health.

Fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium have been known to improve the heart’s health. One study suggested that individuals who consumed 4069 mg of potassium per day had a 49 percent lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease compared with those who consumed less potassium, about 1000 mg per day.

7.     Pineapples may improve brain health.

Several components of pineapple, such as potassium, folate, and various antioxidants are known to provide neurological benefits. Folate has been known to reduce the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. Potassium has been linked to increased blood flow to the brain and enhances cognition, concentration, and neural activity.

Also, pineapples contain a considerable amount of vitamin B6. A deficiency has shown depression and nausea. Be sure not to consume too much. The vitamin B6 upper limit is set to 100 milligrams for adults over the age of 18, but adults do not need that much unless directed by the doctor.