Pineapple: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is an incredibly delicious and healthy tropical fruit. It originated in South America, where early European explorers named it after its resemblance to a pinecone.
Pineapples are tropical fruit that are rich in vitamins, enzymes and antioxidants. They may help boost the immune system, build strong bones and aid indigestion. Also, despite their sweetness, pineapples are low in calories.
Pineapple is also member of the bromeliad family, and one of the few bromeliads to produce edible fruit.
Nutrition facts
Here are the nutrition facts for raw pineapple, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which regulates food labeling through the National Labeling and Education Act:
Serving size: 1 cup chunks (165 g)
Amount per Serving (%DV*)
*Percent Daily Values (%DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Calories 82 | Calories from Fat 0 |
Amt per Serving | %DV* |
Total Fat 0g | 0% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 2mg | 0% |
Potassium 120mg | 3% |
Total Carbohydrate 15g | 5% |
Dietary Fiber 2g | 8% |
Sugars 11g | |
Protein 1g | |
Vitamin A | 2% |
Vitamin C | 131% |
Calcium | 2% |
Iron | 2% |
Health Benefits Of Pineapple
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Plums also help in maintaining the heart health. Dark coloured plums contain more amount of antioxidant called anthocyanins that prevent cell damage due to its anti-inflammatory effects and also checks cholesterol oxidation.They also contain other poly phenolic compounds like lutein and cryptoxanthin. These compound also further help reduce oxidative stress on the cells.
Bone Strength
Pineapple can also make you strong due to its properties which boost bone health. Pineapple contains mineral manganese which is important in connecting tissues and developing strong bones. According to studies, manganese along with other essential minerals can prove to be helpful in women by preventing osteoporosis.
Improves Vision and Eye Health
It is a proven fact that Pineapple can decrease the risk of macular degeneration. This disorder usually affects vision as people age and can also result to blindness in some cases. Since Pineapple is high in antioxidants and vitamin C, it helps to improve eyesight in both children and adults.
Aids in Digestion
Pineapple contains high amounts of dietary fibres that are essential for keeping your intestines healthy. It also contains a lot of bromelain, a substance that breaks down all the proteins and helping digestion. According to research, people who consumed Pineapple or its juice on a daily basis had comparatively less problems in passing stool and rarely had any digestive tract ailments.
Anti-inflammatory Benefits
Bromelain present inside Pineapple can reduce acute inflammation. It has also been proven to reduce the growth of tumours. In old men and women, it can also reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and may even cure it in certain cases. Excessive inflammation can also be associated with cancer. Therefore, it should not be ignored and should be diagnosed as soon as possible for speedy recovery.
Reduces Blood Clots
Pineapple is also useful in reducing excessive coagulation of blood. Blood clots can be very fatal, especially in the case of people suffering from strokes. Therefore, Pineapple is an excellent snack for a person who is at a constant risk for blood clots, for example frequent fliers like air-force officers, pilots and cabin crew attendants.
Helps with Sinus and Common Cold
Since pineapple has a lot of Vitamin C, it is helpful in reducing the mucus in the nose and throat. Consuming Pineapple chunks can be very beneficial in reducing sneezing and can prevent excessive watering of your nose. However, those who have allergies should consume pineapple in small amounts only.
Prevents Cancer
According to studies, Pineapple has been related to prevent cancer from occurring. It can help prevent throat, mouth and breast cancer as it is rich in flavonoids, bromelain, beta carotene, vitamin A and antioxidants. It also contains high levels of manganese which helps to prevent the multiplication of cancer cells.
Beneficial for Oral Health
Pineapple has properties which strengthens the teeth and gums. The astringent agents in Pineapple can also help to tighten the tissues in the body and reduce skin loosening, muscle weakness, hair loss and tooth loss. Pineapple is considered as a natural remedy for retraction of gums and fixing loosening of teeth.
Side effects
Eating pineapple during pregnancy is not good so resist yourself from consuming pineapple during pregnancy. Pineapples are rich in bromelain, which can cause the softening of the cervix leading to early labour.
One can have pineapple in moderate quantities as it will have no effect on labour and delivery, however, its intake should be restricted during the first trimester to avoid any unforeseen event such as softening of the cervix. For this reason Pineapple is in list of foods to avoid during pregnancy. A lot of women opine that drinking lots of pineapple juice can help them achieve labour. So you must stop yourself and your dear ones from eating pineapple while pregnant.
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