Amazing Health Benefits Of Pineapple Juice π
What is Pineapple Juice?
Pineapple juice is the sweet and delicious juice squeezed from the tropical pineapple fruit, which bears the scientific name Ananas comosus. This sugar-rich fruit is originally native to South America, specifically Brazil and Paraguay, but it has since spread throughout Central America, the Caribbean, and other tropical regions where the plant can thrive.
Pineapple Juice Nutrition Facts
Pineapple juice is loved for its sweet and refreshing taste, but many people donβt realize how packed with healthy nutrients it is. It is rich in bromelain, a key enzyme for protein digestion. As per the USDA, unsweetened and undiluted frozen pineapple juice consists of vitamin A, B family vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, carbohydrates, sugars, and dietary fiber.
Many commercially available varieties of the juice also have additional vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to improve the color and flavor of the juice. All of these nutrients, as well as various antioxidants and phenolic compounds, provide the many benefits associated with this tropical drink.
Health Benefits Of Pineapple Juice
Regularly drinking pineapple juice is beneficial for people struggling with high blood pressure, low metabolism, depression, anxiety, mood swings, nutrient deficiencies, constipation, and indigestion, among others. The benefits of this juice are mentioned in detail below.
Lowers Blood Pressure
A study published in the Biotechnology Research International journal suggests that pineapple contains bromelain, which is helpful in regulating blood pressure levels. Also, the high level of potassium found in pineapple juice makes it an excellent remedy for high blood pressure. By acting as a vasodilator, potassium can help reduce hypertension and protect overall cardiovascular health by reducing your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
Boosts Immunity
Studies suggest that pineapple juice is rich in vitamin C, which is a very powerful antioxidant. Moreover, canned varieties of pineapple juice are supplemented with vitamin C (ascorbic acid), in addition to vitamin C already present in this fruit. This can kick-start your immune system and increase the production of white blood cells, which are the primary line of defense for the body.
In a 2014 study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism Journal, researchers assessed the effects of pineapple juice on 98 school-going children. It was found that those children who consumed canned pineapple daily developed lesser viral and bacterial infections as compared to those who did not have this fruit. Furthermore, it was found that those who developed infections out of the group of participants that ate pineapple, showed a quick recovery.
Relief from Cough
Pineapple juice is great for people suffering from cold and cough to ensure relief from the irritation in the throat. To soothe cold and cough, drink pineapple juice after mixing salt, pepper, and honey to it.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Dr. Hale from the Duke University Medical Center, Durham, USA, in his research, has claimed that fresh pineapple juice is helpful in decreasing inflammation. This is credited to the presence of bromelain, which is a proteolytic enzyme. These anti-inflammatory properties of pineapple juice also help treat the symptoms of arthritis, relieve pain and reduce swelling. Consuming fresh juice also helps minimize sinus congestion.
Improves Fertility
Pineapple juice has a rich blend of nutrients including potassium, vitamin C, and a range of B vitamins. These have all been linked with
increased
fertility in both men and women, and a positive boost in reproductive hormones.
Aids in Digestion
The high levels of dietary fiber found in (unstrained or high-pulp) pineapple juice, in addition to the presence of bromelain, a powerful digestive enzyme, can help optimize digestive processes and prevent symptoms of bloating and constipation, says a 2016 study published in the Biomedical Reports Journal. This can stimulate peristaltic motion to regulate bowel movements and ensure proper nutrient uptake by the digestive system. Besides, these nutrients also aid in the case of bowel conditions like ulcerative colitis.
Promotes Growth
With its impressive content of vitamin C, pineapple juice can boost collagen production, which is necessary for the creation of all tissues, muscles, bones, and blood vessels in the body. Whether you are recovering from an illness or surgery, or have been nutrient-deficient in the past, this juice can get your body back on track in terms of repair, development, and general growth.
Prevents Asthma
Regular intake of beta-carotene-rich pineapple juice can show
results
in relieving symptoms of asthma, says a report published by a team of Portuguese researchers.
Beta-carotene gets converted into vitamin A during digestion and functions efficiently in helping lower the risk of asthma.
Skin Care
Pineapple juice is rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C, both of which are known for keeping the skin healthy and glowing. They function as antioxidants and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and damage caused by the harmful UV rays and pollution.