Pineapple Benefits For Health

Pineapple Benefits For Health

One of the most prized and popular fruits, "pineapple" has an interesting history to narrate. Originally indigenous to local Paraguayans in South America, it spread from its native land by the local Indians up through the South and Central Americas and to the West Indies. Later, it was brought to Spain when Columbus discovered Americas’ in 1493. In the 15th and 16th centuries, it spread to rest of the world by the European sailors who carried it along with them to protect themselves from scurvy, a disease caused by the deficiency of vitamin C.

1.Prevents Free Radical Damage

Pineapples are a rich source of antioxidants . They fight against free radicals in the body, preventing cell damage. These antioxidants help protect you from diseases like atherosclerosis, heart diseases, arthritis, various cancers etc.

2. Pineapple Nutrition

Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that may help arthritis pain by easing inflammation. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which helps your immune system.

3.Strong Bones

Rich amount of manganese present in pineapples helps in strengthening bones and connective tissues. A cup of pineapple juice gives you roughly 73% of the required manganese for a day.

4. Pineapple Care

To make your pineapple softer and juicier, keep it at room temperature for 1 or 2 days before cutting.

5.Blood clot reduction

Flores noted that because of their bromelain levels, pineapples can help reduce excessive coagulation of the blood. This makes pineapple a good snack for frequent fliers and others at risk for blood clots.

6.Eye health

Pineapples can help reduce the risk of macular degeneration, a disease that affects the eyes as people age, due in part to its high amount of vitamin C and the antioxidants it contains,Flores said. 

7.Colds and Coughs

The combination of very high levels of vitamin C with anti-inflammatory bromelain makes pineapples a particularly effective treatment for coughs, colds and other respiratory problems.

While the positive benefits of vitamin C in reducing the severity and duration of colds and flu are well known, bromelain also has a role in reducing respiratory problems.

Enzymes in pineapples have been shown to reduce inflammation of the nasal cavity and help break up excessive mucus in the respiratory system. These effects can combat regular colds and coughs and may even be useful for treating more serious respiratory problems like bronchitis.

pineapple-cancerWith so many health benefits, a slice of pineapple looks like a much better option than a glass of commercial orange juice if you’re trying to recover from a cold.