When you think of superfoods turmeric, ginger and açaí probably come to mind, but they aren’t alone. Science is proving more and more what our mothers have known all along: you really should eat more fruits and vegetables.
Whether it’s the high potassium content in bananas, the lycopene in tomatoes or the quercetin in apples, nearly every type of produce has superfood qualities. And pineapple is no exception.
Pineapple Benefits
Pineapple is perhaps best known for one particular enzyme: bromelain. Bromelain is an anti-inflammatory compound that reduces the swelling and pain of tendinitis, sprains and strains, and other injuries (1). It also works well against arthritis and osteoarthritis (2,3).
Bromelain even helps treat bronchitis, high blood pressure, sinusitis, and post-surgery complications. It also fights breast cancer (4,5). Some of these effects are enhanced by the fruit’s high vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron content.
15 Amazing Pineapple Recipes
With these recipes, you’re sure to get your fix!
1. Cocktail Pops
These refreshing popsicles are tart enough to balance out the sweetness of the blackberries and creamy enough to tone down the pineapple. The recipe calls for vodka and cilantro but feel free to adapt it to your taste.
2. Carrot-Pineapple Cake
This nutty cake is a tropical twist on an old classic. To make the fruit shine through even more, add a bit of pineapple juice to the homemade frosting.