Benefits of pineapple: learn how this tropical fruit works on your health

Have you ever stopped to think about the benefits of pineapple? Fruit consumption is an important factor in a balanced diet. In this sense, this delicious tropical fruit provides several improvements and helps in the prevention of diseases, in addition to collaborating with the delay of aging. To learn more, learn about the benefits of pineapple now!

12 benefits of pineapple

We spoke with Andressa Fagundes (CRN 9 22044), a clinical nutritionist in Uberlândia (MG), who selected the main benefits of pineapple. Check out:

1. It helps to avoid flu, colds and inflammation in the body: due to the high concentration of the enzyme bromelain and of the antioxidants of vitamin C. In this way, pineapple offers protection against free radicals and stimulates the immune system.
2. Protects Oral Health: Vitamin C, present in pineapple, may reduce the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
3. Prevents osteoporosis and bone fractures: because it is rich in manganese and calcium.
4. Reduces headaches: this is because it contains many minerals. In addition, copper, present in pineapple, is a possible sensitive headache reliever.
5. Helps with constipation and satiety regulation: according to the nutritionist, pineapple fibers have great potential for gastric fullness and this, added to the high amount of water in food, makes it a mild natural laxative.
6. Relieves the feeling of stomach bloating: due to the high digestive capacity of pineapple.
7. Acts as a natural diuretic: as 86% of its pulp is made up of water, this fruit helps increase water intake and fight fluid retention.
8. It helps to improve metabolism and collagen production: benefit of vitamin C, which helps to improve iron, fat and cholesterol metabolism. In addition, it favors the production of amino acids and collagen.
9. Helps reduce cellulite: due to the production of amino acids and collagen, bromelain stimulates digestive functions that help to reduce the dreaded cellulite.
10. It has high vascular protection power: due to bromelain and its function, which helps in the absorption of proteins. Thus, there is stimulation of collagen production in blood vessels.
11. Helps to reduce blood pressure: effect conferred by the high amount of potassium, which consequently brings the prevention of vascular accidents.
12. Slows down aging: manganese, one of the nutrients in pineapple, can protect the body’s cells against free radicals, which prevents cell destruction that accelerates aging.

There are many benefits of pineapple, and the fruit provides many long-term health improvements. But are there any bad effects when consuming it? Learn more in the next topic!

harms of pineapple

Nutritionist Andressa Fagundes indicates that pineapple can have negative effects if consumed in excess. See below:

• It can increase the risk of bleeding: if bromelain, present in pineapple, is ingested together with anticoagulants, it can bring this side effect.
• It can cause an increase in heart palpitations: some studies indicate that excess bromelain can cause an increase in heart palpitations in hypertensive patients.
• It offers possible risks associated with the use of antibiotics: in case of concomitant consumption with the use of antibiotics, bromelain can interfere with the effects of the drug.
• In some cases, it contributes to the development of canker sores and stomatitis: especially if the fruit is consumed in excess. However, this may be a reflection of low immunity, and not just pineapple. Andressa Fagundes warns that each case must be analyzed individually by a professional in the area.

According to the nutritionist, pineapple can be consumed every day, but a diet with variations of fruits and vegetables represents higher values ​​of vitamins and minerals. In addition, pineapple can be consumed on an empty stomach, but the factors already mentioned must be taken into account.

How to consume and 10 wonderful recipes with pineapple

According to Andressa, ingesting pineapple in natura allows for effective use of its fibers and minerals. Therefore, we can get creative and consume it in a fruit salad, in a green juice, roasted on a grill with cinnamon, in sweet preparations and in salads with leaves.

Thinking about preparations that contain pineapple as a star, we separate delicious recipes to vary the consumption of the fruit. Check out:

Pineapple, banana and apple juice: very easy natural juice made with just the three fruits, which provide energy and vitamins.

Pineapple juice with mint: a classic that is enhanced with green tea and flaxseed, bringing more nutrients, satiety and improved metabolism.

Pineapple juice with beetroot: how about a refreshing juice with a beautiful color? For this, you will need pineapple, beets, mint and parsley.

Pineapple candy: recipe for a tasty party candy, with just three ingredients: pineapple cut into cubes, sugar and grated coconut.

Pineapple jelly: homemade jam made with the fruit, crystal sugar and lemon juice. You can use it in pies, mousses, ice cream and cakes.

Cold pineapple delight: for those hot days, this recipe is perfect, as it is very refreshing and creamy. It only takes pineapple, condensed milk, cream, gelatin and water.

Pineapple gelatin dessert: delicious and sweet dessert, which combines two textures and has a shine that delights everyone!

Pineapple ice cream cake: cake to eat ice cream, which has pieces of pineapple, a super creamy syrup and grated coconut on top.

Caramelized pineapple cake: a preparation that comes out of the oven ready and conquers by the combination of caramel and pineapple.

Coconut Pineapple Cake: Very creamy pineapple cake with thick layers of filling. The coconut goes both in the dough and on the outside, to decorate. On the outside, you can use burnt coconut for the amazing result!

Pineapple is a great food and is present in several preparations of our daily lives. For more options, see our article on pineapple recipes.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.