Incredible Pineapple Benefits

Health benefits of pineapple

1. An anti-inflammatory agent

Pineapple hails from the bromeliaceae family, after which one of its most important health promoting compounds, the enzyme bromelain, was named. The complex mixture of its substances can act as a pain reliever, blood thinner and anti-coagulant, as well as an anti-inflammatory agent. Long story in short, it is nature's aspirin.

2. Cure for constipation

This miraculous fruit aids in the natural digestion process. The high quantity of fiber helps in the formation of stool and its quick movement though the tract, while the enzyme bromelain is known to help in the breakdown of protein. Pineapple juice, in particular, serves as a great laxative that cures constipation.

3. Helps in burning fat

even though it contains sugar (extremely beneficial for growing kids), the amount is not so overwhelming. Plus, the amount of fat is negligible as well, making it a go-to-snack for the ones trying to shed kilos. The soluble fiber content contributes to a delayed digestive process, which helps to control hunger pangs and indirectly accounts for a boost in metabolism and calorie burn" says bangalore-based nutritionist. Dr. Anju sood.

4.Good for the eyes

Pineapple is a rich source of vitamin c, anti-oxidants and minerals like manganese and potassium. It helps fight against cell damage and reduces the risk of macular degeneration, an eye disease that affects older people. It is also a good source of beta carotene, essential for eye health.

5. Regulates blood pressure and hypertension

Medical studies have established that a cup of pineapple contains (low amount) 1 mg of sodium and (high amount) 195 mg of potassium, which is vital for bringing down the blood pressure to a state of normalcy. Potassium is an essential mineral which helps in regulating blood pressure in the body.

6. Counters infertility

If you are a woman struggling to conceive, pineapple can help. The presence of a considerable amount of folic acid makes this possible.

7. Vitamin powerhouse

Pineapples pack a tremendous nutritional punch, containing vitamins a, c, e, and k, minerals like potassium and calcium, electrolytes and phyto-nutrients like carotene. They are a rich source of anti-oxidants, which fight against free radicals in the body, preventing cell damage. These anti-oxidants can protect you from diseases like atherosclerosis, heart diseases, arthritis and various cancers. Vitamin a and vitamin c are a boon for the skin as well" we usually recommend two servings of any fruit a day, and pineapple can certainly be one of them on a daily basis. 100 gm of the fruit is sufficient, provided it is consumed during the first half of the day" adds Dr. Sood