Pineapple contains a surprising amount of health benefits. The fruit not only has high amounts of vitamin C and minerals, but it also contains significant amounts of several other vitamins and minerals as well. One of the main vitamins found in pineapples is vitamin C, with an additional abundance of other healthy chemicals such as vitamin D and phytochemicals.
Vitamin C is a proven antioxidant, which helps prevent the development of cancer. The fruits contain many other antioxidants, including vitamin B5, which also have anti-inflammatory properties. The two vitamins work together to help prevent free radical damage in the body which can lead to the development of cancer. This in turn helps prevent heart disease and certain cancers of the lymphatic system.
Pineapple contains an impressive amount of potassium, up to forty percent more than in comparable fruits. Potassium aids in regulating the body’s fluid levels as well as maintaining muscle tone and keeping the skin healthy. It also helps prevent dehydration. The potassium found in pineapple helps to keep nerve and muscle function normal. Deficiency can lead to poor circulation, weakness, and premature aging.
The fruits contain significant amounts of several other important minerals. One of the most beneficial is calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Calcium works hand-in-hand with vitamin D in helping to keep strong teeth and bone tissue healthy. The third mineral contained in pineapple is magnesium. Pineapples contain a significant amount of magnesium, which is responsible for regulating nerve and muscle function and helping to maintain good blood pressure.
The last mineral found in pineapple is manganese. Pineapples contain about fifteen times the amount of manganese that is found in vegetables. This makes manganese a highly beneficial element for ensuring proper bone density and also helping to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Manganese works with Vitamin D to help reduce inflammation of the joints. It also provides an essential source of B2B vitamins like niacin and thiamin.
In addition to the many vitamins and minerals, pineapple has a considerable amount of fiber. About fifteen pounds of pineapples contain one cup of fiber. That is enough to provide the average person with one tablespoon of fiber every day. This is the equivalent of eating about one ounce of fresh vegetables every single day. When combined with vitamins and minerals, the fiber in pineapples will help to keep you feeling full for a long time. As a result, the health benefits of pineapple are compounded.
One of the best knowns of all the health benefits of pineapple is its effect on improving a person’s overall immune system. Pineapples contain a large amount of vitamin C. As a result, the fruit helps to maintain a healthy immune system by providing a constant supply of vitamins A, C, and E. Additionally, the pineapple contains a high level of potassium, iron, manganese, and calcium. All of these natural elements work to support proper cell division and growth, which contribute to a healthy nervous system and a strong immune system. Each of the health benefits of pineapple focuses on one aspect of the human body and there is no wonder that the fruit is considered one of nature’s greatest foods by most nutritionists. Combining pineapple with other fruits, such as apple and orange, can offer even greater benefits.
One of the best-known health benefits of pineapple is its use in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain. Both these conditions are often thought to be related to age. The truth is, however, that pineapple juice and the juices from other pineapples serve as a powerful natural cocktail to combat the arthritic symptoms. Another ingredient that has been found to be particularly helpful is Bromelain, which is a natural enzyme derived from pineapples.