Pineapple: Beneficial Enzymes for Improved Digestion
The enzyme bromelain, which is found in pineapples, aids in the healing of burns and wounds and reduces discomfort and swelling in the nose. Digestion problems such as dyspepsia and indigestion are also treated with it. Pineapple has a lot of vitamin C, which functions as an antioxidant and may maintain the health of your gut microorganisms by regulating inflammatory reactions. It's a good source of fibre as well.
1. Bromelain
2. Pectin
Some fruits and vegetables naturally contain the carbohydrate pectin. It is this material that helps preserve fresh foods like jams and other handmade goods and causes them to gel when heated. It also supports intestinal immunological barrier function and the diversity of gut flora, among many other health advantages. Pectin supports healthy gut flora and has been shown in lab experiments to have anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties. It lowers blood inflammatory markers and boosts bacterial synthesis of short-chain fatty acids, which help prevent obesity and other chronic disorders. Through their interaction with pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), dietary fibres are known to directly interact with intestinal cells and mucosal immune cells, altering their responses. Recent studies have demonstrated that different pectin chemical structures have distinct immunomodulatory effects. Toll-like receptor 2's ectodomain is specifically bound by pectins with low molecular weights and varying degrees of esterification, which inhibit pro-inflammatory pathways while promoting the tolerogenic pathway.
3. Glucose
Pineapple is high in fibre, B vitamins, and vitamin C. According to a test-tube study, the fruit possesses antioxidant qualities and is an excellent source of potassium, both of which can help prevent cardiovascular disease. Additionally, a research review mentioned that pineapple has anti-inflammatory properties and contains bromelain, a combination of enzymes that aid in digestion and break down protein. The body converts carbohydrates, which are an essential source of energy, into simple sugars and complex carbs like dietary fibre and starches. Polysaccharides, often known as complex carbohydrates, are lengthy chains of several tiny monosaccharides. Pineapple's dietary fibre encourages the formation of probiotics and aids in restoring the microbiota of the colon to normal. Dietitians advise eating foods high in carbohydrates in moderation. Consuming meals high in fibre will help you feel fuller for longer, regulate your blood sugar levels, and enhance digestion. According to Rivenburgh, a cup of pineapple has 2.3 grammes of dietary fibre, which can aid with weight management, alleviate bloating, and encourage regularity.
4. Fibre
A tropical fruit with a unique flavour, pineapple is good eaten raw, frozen, or cooked. It has a lot of minerals, vitamins, and enzymes. It has antioxidants to help minimise oxidative stress in the body and vitamin C to promote iron absorption and your immune system. Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, facilitates better digestion by dissolving proteins into their constituent amino acids and peptides. Furthermore, pineapple juice thins mucus, which makes it a helpful treatment for throat irritation and nasal congestion. It can also help alleviate the symptoms of allergies or the common cold. Dietary fibre from pineapple might keep you feeling full. A cup of dried pineapple or pineapple chunks supplies 6–11% of the daily required amount of dietary fibre. It also includes B vitamins, which aid in the breakdown of food into energy, such as thiamin, niacin, and folate. Pineapple also has potassium, which is beneficial to heart health. Manganese, which promotes bone growth and development, is another ingredient in it.