I love pineapple, always have, but fruit is almost a luxury on a budget income, as fruit prices have skyrocketed along with everything else! However, next time out to the grocery I'm going to splurge on a good fresh pineapple because the health benefits!
But how do you pick a good one out at the grocery? How do you know if it's ripe or not? Turns out it starts ripening as soon as it is picked, and when in the grocery you have to pick one out by smell. If it smells fresh, tropical and sweet, it will be good! The more scales it has the sweeter the juicier the taste..and did you know that if you cut off the top it will grow just like a sweet potato does!
Since I have a slow digestive system thanks to this thyroid issue and a B12 deficiency, I'm always looking for ways to improve my metabolism. I can hardly eat any meats any more. I think going vegan may be more to my liking, but I worry that I won't get the nutrients I need. With my B12 deficiency, my stomach lining does not absorb stuff like normal people do; that is why I have to give myself B12 injections and take supplements, and try to learn healthier things to eat (all of course on a budget which ain't easy!). I did a little research on pineapple and it is a very good choice for me, and hopefully you'll think about next time you see them in the store.
I found out that the pineapple is a member of the bromeliad family. What the heck is that? just keep reading...It is extremely rare that bromeliads produce edible fruit, and that the pineapple is the only available edible bromeliad today. Who knew right? I just know it tastes good, but as it turns out pineapple is valuable for easing indigestion, arthritis, or sinusitis. It says the juice has an anthelmintic effect (say what?); and it helps get rid of intestinal worms! Worms? You mean we all have worms? that's another topic of exploration.
However, in finding out more about the pineapple, they say it is high in manganese, a mineral that is critical to the development of strong bones and connective tissue, and would be particularly helpful to older adults, whose bones tend to become brittle with age.
Now here's the scoop on bromelain. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, is the key to pineapple’s value. Proteolytic means “breaks down protein”, which is why pineapple is known to be a digestive aid. It helps the body digest proteins more efficiently.Bromelain is also considered an effective anti-inflammatory. Regular ingestion of at least one half cup of fresh pineapple daily is purported to relieve painful joints common to osteoarthritis. It produces mild pain relief. In Germany, bromelain is approved as a post-injury medication because it is thought to reduce inflammation and swelling (okay, I'm not so sure I believe this one). However, I might try increasing my ingestion of pineapple to improve my digestion!
Most everybody knows that orange juice is a popular liquid for those suffering from a cold because it is high in Vitamin C. Fresh pineapple is not only high in Vitamin C, but because of the bromelain, it has the ability to reduce mucus in the throat. If you have a cold with a productive cough, add pineapple to your diet. I'm sure a little pineapple is cheaper than Mucinex huh? and probably safer for the kids who get congested through the winter months? It is commonly used in Europe as a post-operative measure to cut mucus after certain sinus and throat operations. Those individuals who eat fresh pineapple daily report fewer sinus problems related to allergies. In and of itself, pineapple has a very low risk for allergies.
Pineapple is also known to discourage blood clot development. This makes it a valuable dietary addition for frequent fliers and others who may be at risk for blood clots.
An old folk remedy for morning sickness is fresh pineapple juice. It really works! Fresh juice and some nuts first thing in the morning often makes a difference. It’s also good for a healthier mouth. The fresh juice discourages plaque growth.
Pineapples are a great fruit to eat in between meals to improve digestion. You can also eat a few chunks of fresh pineapple first thing in the morning as a digestive aid. The article I read suggests eating pineapple on a low to empty stomach to get the most bromelain induced effects.
You can also grill it; stick chunks on a skewer for a grilled or raw pineapple kabob! Raw pineapple, now really is there such a thing? ha!
