You don’t have to live in the tropics to crave a pineapple. You just need to understand all the nutritional benefits of eating them. And when you do, you may never settle for an apple again.
Just the facts:
One cup of pineapple has over 100% of your daily value of vitamin C and half your daily manganese.
All this goodness protects cells, builds collagen, helps the body metabolize food, maintains proper blood clotting, and keeps your bones strong.
Pineapple also contributes to your daily values of vitamin B6, copper, thiamin, folate, potassium, magnesium, niacin, riboflavin, and iron.
Not ready to slice that gorgeous fruit yet? You will be when you learn more of these facts:
Pineapple is the only known food source of bromelain, a combination of protein-digesting enzymes that make it easier for your body to process and absorb the nutrients in your diet. Bromelain has been suggested, but not proven, to be linked to a lowered risk of cancer. Pineapple also helps us avoid chronic disease with its high antioxidant content.
Pineapple’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties help us recover from injuries, infections, or just a tougher-than-usual workout.
Now, if you’re looking for a reason not to eat pineapple, there’s probably only one: if you’re allergic enough to the fruit to suffer hives, swelling, or trouble breathing. Some people who are allergic to latex can also be allergic to pineapple. But “it makes my mouth burn” isn’t an allergy – it’s just a reaction that some people experience to the fruit’s bromelain as it breaks down proteins. If that’s your reason for steering clear, don’t. Just try eating your pineapple with some dairy to counteract bromelain’s effects.
