![]() ![]() Pineapples have been used in traditional medicine for centuries ( 1, 15). May boost immunity and suppress inflammation Pineapple contains compounds such as bromelain that may have anticancer effects, although far more human studies are needed.ĥ. Overall, more human research is necessary ( 28). One review of human studies found there was no benefit to using oral enzymes such as bromelain alongside cancer therapy, although research is mixed ( 26, 27). That said, pineapple contains much less bromelain than supplements do. Other test-tube studies have produced similar results for skin, colorectal, or bile duct cancers ( 21, 22, 23, 24).įurthermore, older test-tube and animal studies have found that bromelain may stimulate the immune system to produce molecules that make white blood cells more effective at suppressing cancer cell growth and eliminating cancer cells ( 25). Some studies show that bromelain may also help treat cancer that has already developed ( 18, 19, 20).įor instance, one test-tube study found that bromelain suppressed the growth of breast cancer cells and stimulated cell death, while a mouse study found that bromelain enhanced the effects of anticancer therapy ( 19, 20). Several studies note that pineapple and its compounds, including bromelain, may reduce cancer risk by minimizing oxidative stress and reducing inflammation ( 10, 11, 12, 15). Its progression is commonly linked to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation ( 17). Pineapples contain bromelain, a group of digestive enzymes that may help break down protein and aid digestion.Ĭancer is a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. What’s more, pineapples are a good source of fiber, which aids digestive health ( 2). One test-tube study found that bromelain reduced inflammatory markers in digestive tissue, though further research is needed ( 16). This is especially helpful for people with pancreatic insufficiency, a condition in which the pancreas cannot make enough digestive enzymes ( 15).īromelain is also widely used as a commercial meat tenderizer due to its ability to break down tough meat proteins ( 15). ![]() Once protein molecules are broken down, your small intestine can more easily absorb them. Interestingly, this fruit contains a group of digestive enzymes called bromelain that may ease the digestion of meat ( 12).īromelain functions as a protease, which breaks down protein molecules into their building blocks, such as amino acids and small peptides ( 13, 14). You’ll often find pineapple served alongside meats and poultry in countries such as Brazil. ![]() Pineapples are especially rich in vitamin C and manganese, as well as numerous other vitamins and minerals. ![]() Pineapples also contain other micronutrients, such as copper, thiamine, and vitamin B6, which are essential for healthy metabolism ( 6, 7, 8). Vitamin C is essential for immune health, iron absorption, and growth and development, while manganese offers antioxidant properties and aids in growth and metabolism ( 3, 4).Īntioxidants help prevent oxidation in your body, which may help ward off inflammation that can lead to cancer and other chronic diseases ( 5). Pineapples also contain trace amounts of phosphorus, zinc, calcium, and vitamins A and K.Īs you can see, this fruit is particularly rich in vitamin C and manganese. Just 1 cup (165 grams) of pineapple chunks contains the following nutrients ( 2): Pineapples are low in calories but boast an impressive nutrient profile. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |