Rich in vitamin C and bromelain, the food can reduce swelling and prevent disease. Discover the secrets of pineapple
The superfruit concept is relatively new in Brazil. Nutrition scholars and professionals consider some fruits so beneficial to health that they deserve this classification. And the pineapple it’s one of them. Source of countless vitamins, minerals and functional substances, the fruit is an excellent way to sweeten your life, your diet and, above all, prevent the development of diseases.
It is not news to – almost – anyone that, to maintain a healthy diet, it is not necessary to suffer. Pineapple is further proof that it is possible, for example, to eat well and lose weight. To demonstrate all the positive things the fruit can do for your health, with the help of nutritionist Fernanda Brunacci, we have listed the eight main benefits of pineapple. Watch:
1 – Prevents the development of serious diseases
“Pineapple can act in several positive ways on health, as it is a fruit rich in various vitamins, minerals, bioactive compounds, water and fibre. Combined with a healthy and balanced diet, it can help prevent the increase in cholesterol, onset of diabetes, some types of cancer and heart health,” explains Fernanda.
2 – Fight stress and improve mental health
According to the nutritionist, in addition to the physical benefits, including pineapple in your diet can also strengthen your mind. “Thanks to vitamins B1 and B3, pineapple helps fight tiredness and mental tiredness,” he explains.
3 – Strengthen your muscles
The fruit can also be an excellent alternative for those who regularly practice physical activity. “The presence of potassium helps muscle contraction and protects against hypertension,” explains Fernanda.
4 – Lose weight and reduce body swelling
You know that bad feeling of bloating, the causes can be many, but constipation and water retention usually contribute to this unpleasant effect. Eating a few portions of pineapple, perhaps, is the long-sought solution. “The fruit also helps intestinal transit and can also help with premenstrual syndrome, reducing fluid retention,” explains the specialist.
5 – High level immunity
Perhaps one of the most famous effects of the fruit. “As a source of vitamin C, pineapple plays a fundamental role in the immune system, in the absorption of iron (avoiding iron deficiency anemia) and in blood circulation,” comments Fernanda.
6 – Improves digestion
Another famous function of pineapple. “Fruit is always remembered as a food that aids digestion, thanks to the presence of an enzyme called bromelain”, explains the nutritionist.
7 – Reduces pain and delays aging
“This enzyme [bromelina] It also has other roles in the body: it is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that protects the heart. It can help with arthritis, reduce pain and prevent cancer. It also has an antimicrobial action”, reports Fernanda.
8 – It can prevent infections
“Some studies even indicate that bromelain can act in the prevention of bacterial diseases, pneumonia, rhinitis and sinusitis,” adds the nutritionist.
Be careful when using pineapple
However, for pineapple to offer all these benefits, the ideal is to consume the fruit in its natural state. Or, in a simple recipe, which does not contain the addition of sugar and other industrialized components. It’s also worth mentioning that roasting pineapple can reduce its functional properties. “High temperatures degrade both bromelain and vitamins C, B1 and B3,” explains Fernanda.
Furthermore, there is no correct amount to consume pineapple every day. According to the nutritionist, to achieve ideal levels of vitamin C and fibre, for example, it would be necessary to consume 12 slices of fruit. “Of course, no one will eat only pineapple. So follow a balanced and harmonious diet and consume different types of fruit, to offer the body a variety of nutrients,” he recommends.
As for possible contraindications, Fernanda points out that “some people have canker sore problems when they eat pineapple. Others have a certain degree of heartburn. If this is your case, exclude the fruit from your diet.”
Source: Fernanda Brunacci, nutritionist at Vibe Saúde
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
