Bromelain, a mixture of proteolytic enzymes found in pineapple, has many health benefits: it’s a known anti-inflammatory that can be used in the treatment of colitis(1), but its beneficial properties don’t end there.
According to one article in the journal Biotechnology Research International,
“Bromelain accounts for many therapeutic benefits like the treatment of angina pectoris, bronchitis, sinusitis, surgical trauma, and thrombophlebitis, debridement of wounds, and enhanced absorption of drugs, particularly antibiotics”(2).
Bromelain is highly bioavailable, which means the body has an easy time absorbing it and putting it to use. It also has an incredibly low toxicity, meaning it is safe to ingest even in large quantities.
New research in the past few years has even found that bromelain has potential as an anti-cancer agent(3).
Pineapple itself is a popular fruit not only for its sweet taste, but for its affordability and low levels of pesticides. One study on the effects of pineapple consumption on school-aged children concluded that pineapple is “a good source of nutrients such as vitamins b2 (riboflavin), C (ascorbic acid), manganese, and phytochemicals,” adding that “Consumption of pineapple and its components has been linked with immunity(4)”.
If you’re looking to give your immune system a boost, pineapple is an ideal food to do it – and there’s no time of year better for these frozen pineapple treats than summer.