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Key Insight:
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Pineapple has multiple benefits, and it's amazing in its way. Be it the crown on top, the sweet-tart taste or the unique shape, it's pretty hard not to notice this fruit. Moreover, when you learn about ananas benefits for your health and beauty, you will fall in love with this tropical fruit.
This article will walk you through the benefits it offers, including its ability to boost immunity and digestive health, enhance skin and hair health, and many more. Further, you'll also learn the best ways to use pineapple juice, pineapple for hair growth, pineapple benefits for skin
. So, keep reading till the end.
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Did You Know:
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Nutritional Value per Glass of Pineapple Juice
Here is the nutritional information for one cup (250 grams) of unsweetened pineapple juice:
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Nutrient |
Amount per Cup |
% Daily Value (DV) |
|
Calories |
132 |
- |
|
Protein |
0.9 grams |
- |
|
Fat |
0.3 grams |
- |
|
Carbohydrates |
32.2 grams |
- |
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Fiber |
0.5 grams |
- |
|
Sugar |
25 grams |
- |
|
Manganese |
- |
55% |
|
Copper |
- |
19% |
|
Vitamin B6 |
- |
15% |
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Vitamin C |
- |
100% |
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Thiamine |
- |
12% |
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Folate |
- |
11% |
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Potassium |
- |
7% |
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Magnesium |
- |
7% |
Proven Health Benefits Offered by Pineapple Juice
As already mentioned, pineapples come with a multitude of health benefits. With a high content of vitamin C, AHAs, bromelain enzyme, fibre etc., this tropical fruit can be used in many ways. You can consume pineapple juice and sliced fruit chunks or prepare masks. Do you want to experience the benefits of this fruit? You will find convincing reasons to include it in your healthcare regime here.
Clinical Studies on Pineapple:
1. Impact of Bromelain-Enriched Pineapple Juice on HIV/AIDS Patients: In a clinical study conducted by Pandjaitan et al., the healing potential of bromelain enzyme from fresh pineapple juice was explored for HIV/AIDS patients. Initially, HIV-positive human serums were incubated with bromelain at varying concentrations (4 hours, 37°C), showing negative results at concentrations above 10 mg/mL. Subsequently, seven HIV patients were administered two glasses of fresh pineapple juice daily.
Over four months, significant improvement in CD4+ counts was observed in all patients, with three reaching normal CD4+ levels. Remarkably, two patients showed viral counts below the detection limit (<400 copies/mL), indicating a substantial reduction in viral load. This study highlights the promising role of bromelain from pineapple juice as a supportive treatment for enhancing immune response and managing HIV infection.
2. Effects of Bromelain in Pineapple Juice on Menstrual Disorders and Water Retention in Females: A clinical study explored the impact of bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple juice, on menstrual disorders, highlighting its ability to alleviate painful periods. The study found that bromelain effectively corrected menstrual irregularities and provided significant relief from menstrual pain, making it a natural aid for women suffering from dysmenorrhea.
Additionally, pineapple juice showed benefits in reducing excessive water retention, particularly during pregnancy or menstruation, which can cause discomfort and bloating. This effect is attributed to its diuretic properties, helping to regulate fluid balance in the body. The findings suggest that regular consumption of pineapple juice may offer a natural therapeutic option for managing menstrual discomfort and associated symptoms in women.
Interesting Facts About Pineapple
What is the health benefit of pineapple? We will discuss that in this article. But first, let's look at some fascinating facts about this fruit:
- Pineapple was originally called piña in Spanish, which means pine cone and was used to refer to the fruit 300 years later when it was named pineapple to distinguish it from other fruits.
- Europeans discovered pineapple in 1493 on the island of Guadalupe, and because of its prestige, it was considered a luxurious fruit.
- Pineapple skins are used to create vinegar, animal feed, and alcohol.
- Pineapple plants are members of the bromeliad family and can take up to two years to fully ripen. Each plant produces a single fruit.
Benefits of Drinking Pineapple Juice
- Treats cough and cold
- Aids in digestion
- Improves fertility
- Strengthens immunity
- Packed with antioxidants
- Prevents cancer
1. Treats cough and cold
Do you often suffer from a bad cough or cold? Incorporating pineapple into your lifestyle can help treat coughs and colds effectively. This fruit is loaded with an enzyme, bromelain, whose inflammatory properties can help kill bacteria and fight infections. Consuming sliced pineapple or juice daily can help boost immunity and prevent common colds or coughs. As a bonus, dealing with the horrible cold could be a tastier option, too.
2. Aids in digestion
Consuming too much of your favourite, mostly oily and spicy foods can often cause indigestion. So, if you want to get rid of a bloated stomach, stomach ache or other digestive problems, drinking pineapple juice can help you. As a rich source of dietary fibre, bromelain, vitamin C etc.,this fruit aids in good digestion.
3. Improves fertility
This is a major benefit of consuming sliced pineapple or its juice. Several studies state that consuming antioxidant-rich foods can help improve fertility. Free radicals in the body often affect reproductivity systems and induce infertility. Pineapple is a rich source of antioxidants like beta carotene, vitamin C, and essential minerals. All these have a huge impact on female and male fertility. Moreover, antioxidants can help restore tissue formation and blood flow in genital organs while boosting sperm count.
4. Strengthens immunity
Are you looking for an effective way to boost your immunity? Drinking pineapple juice every day can do that for you. Consider including it in your diet, as it contains vitamin C. This nutrient is popular for its immunity-boosting properties. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to get rid of the free radicals in the body, thereby protecting you from various illnesses like diabetes, colon cancer, heart diseases, plaque formation in the artery, arthritis etc. Various studies have repeatedly shown that adequate vitamin C can help reduce or prevent these conditions from elevating further.
5. Packed with antioxidants
Antioxidant molecules in pineapples are abundant and help the body fight against oxidative stress. An imbalance of free radicals results in oxidative stress, which harms healthy cells and raises the risk of diabetes, heart disease, chronic inflammation, a weakened immune system, and some types of cancer. Flavonoids and phenolic chemicals, known to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, make up most of its antioxidant content.
6. Prevents cancer
Cancer is a deadly, long-term illness characterized by the proliferation of many cells, which subsequently leads to inflammation and oxidative stress. Pineapple and its bioactive ingredient, Bromelain, have been linked to a lower risk of cancer by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, according to multiple studies.
According to a study, bromelain may also aid in the treatment of malignancies that have already developed, such as skin, colorectal, bile duct, or breast cancers. Bromelain may also help the immune system produce white blood cells, which can stop the formation of cancer cells and protect against them.
Pineapple Juice Benefits for Skin
There are numerous ways by which pineapple masks or consuming its juice can enhance your skin, such as:
- Get brighter skin
- A spot treatment for inflamed acne
- An effective scrub for an oily skin
- Treats acne
- Prevents pimples
- Treats black spots
- Anti-ageing properties
1. Get brighter skin
Pineapple contains an enzyme popularly used in various skincare products and treatments. This enzyme- bromelain, is a protein dissolving in nature that breaks the bond between stubborn dead skin cells. To get maximum benefits from the goodness of pineapple, make a simple face pack at home. You must mash the pineapple and mix the honey, creating a smooth paste. Apply the pack on your face, keep it for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. Honey will help to hydrate and soothe your skin. Its humectant property helps to keep the moisture intact without ripping off your skin's natural oils.
Similarly, pineapple will help you boost skin glow and also help to get rid of sun tan. You will be surprised by the results. Regularly using this pack will produce softened, clear, hydrated and brighter skin.
2. A spot treatment for inflamed acne
The enzyme bromelain is an active anti-inflammatory agent that can help the wound to heal quickly. Moreover, using turmeric with crushed pineapple can help to heal wounds faster while promoting tissue formation to prevent bruising. Curcumin in turmeric has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and when paired with this tropical fruit, it works wonders. Vitamin C, bromelain and antioxidants in pineapple helps prevent acne while soothing inflamed skin.
3. An effective scrub for an oily skin
Oily-skinned people are well aware of issues like acne due to excess oil production; hence, they want to try every possible way to eliminate this problem. This is where pineapple comes into the scene.
Since time has not been known, people have used gram flour to brighten their complexion and prevent the formation of blemishes and dark spots. Gram flour is a rich source of zinc and is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties. It retards the formation of red bumps, which is a form of hormonal acne and promotes healthier oil balance, and mattifies the skin with regular usage. Making a homemade face mask using gram flour, mashed pineapple, and oatmeal can promote healthy skin. It can act as a natural cleanser, mask or scrub that exfoliates the skin and reduce excess oil production.
4. Treats acne
Pineapple juice contains high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help heal UV damage, acne, and uneven skin tone. One substance that can help reduce joint swelling and inflammation is called bromelain. All you have to do to look fair is drink one glass of pineapple juice, which will help you get rid of all the scars left by acne. It will also maintain the moisture balance and clarity of your skin.
5. Prevents pimples
By consuming pineapple juice, you are ingesting alpha-hydroxy acid, the primary compound that slows down the ageing process by delaying the death of cells. All you have to do is slather your face in pineapple juice and allow it to dry for five minutes. After that, you may rinse it off with some water to remove the toxins from your face and restore a bright, clean appearance to your skin.
6. Treats black spots
You must apply some pineapple slices to the areas with black spots on your face to minimise them. After applying it to your face, you must wait for it to dry for five minutes. After that, rinse it off with a little water, hydrating and rejuvenating your skin.
7. Anti-ageing properties
As you age, your skin starts to lose its lustre, and wrinkles will start to appear. On the other hand, pineapple juice can prevent cell death and make you appear younger. It is claimed to strengthen your immunity and energise you because of its abundant antioxidants and vitamin C supply. The greatest thing about pineapple juice is that it will smooth out your skin and give it a youthful sheen. You may increase the anti-ageing properties by adding a few drops of lemon to it as well.
Pineapple Juice Benefits for Hair
Is pineapple good for hair? Here are some more ways by which pineapple can improve your hair health:
- Promotes healthy hair
- Treats dry and itchy scalp
- Softer and shinier hair
- Cures inflammation in the scalp
1. Promotes healthy hair
Are you worried about severe hair thinning and loss? You may have tried every possible method but didn't get the desired results. So, it's high time to incorporate pineapple both externally and internally. The high vitamin C content can aid in treating hair thinning as an antioxidant agent; vitamin C fights off free radicals to prevent severe hair fall. The other minerals and nutrients in the fruit nourish the hair follicle while strengthening and boosting hair growth.
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2. Treats dry and itchy scalp
Often, dirt, product build-up and various impurities result in an itchy and dry scalp. Many of you might already be suffering from the same problem. Therefore, one of the best remedies you can try is incorporating pineapple into your hair care routine and your diet. Bromelain in pineapple exfoliates the scalp while removing dirt and impurities effectively and gently. Also, its anti-inflammatory benefits can soothe the itchy and dry scalp while giving you much relief from dandruff and infections.
3. Softer and shinier hair
As mentioned earlier, vitamin C present in pineapple juice has many benefits for your skin and health. Its benefits are unlimited, though. It can help to make your hair shinier and softer by repairing damaged and dry hair. The antioxidant properties make your hair thick and prevent hair breakage. Making hair masks with mashed pineapple and consuming them can give you better results.
4. Cures inflammation in the scalp
All you have to do to get fast relief from intense itching is try some pineapple or juice. This nutritious fruit juice reduces scalp irritation and stops unwelcome hair loss. Thus, to stop hair loss, make it a point to drink pineapple juice.
Precautions to take when consuming Pineapple
There are some possible side-effects of consuming pineapple that you must consider, such as:
- It can cause allergic reactions and prevent blood clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation.
- It can increase menstrual bleeding; hence, pregnant women are advised against consuming pineapple, which could result in miscarriages.
Side Effects of Pineapple Juice
Pineapples are a valuable food item that may be consumed without concern. However, it could have the following typical side effects:
- A painful mouth and food pipe may result from consuming a lot of pineapple juice.
- Pineapple juice's high sugar content may make diabetes more likely.
- Unripe fruit could be toxic. Additionally, because it contains acid, it could irritate your throat.
- When taken on an empty stomach, high concentrations of citric acid may produce an upset stomach.
- Pineapple acids have the potential to erode gum tissue and tooth enamel, resulting in tooth cavities and gingivitis.
- Lips and skin could be impacted by overindulgence in food.
How to Make Pineapple Juice at Home?
Sweet and tart pineapple is an excellent summer juice when blended at home. Follow these simple steps for maximum flavour and nutrition:
Step 1: Choose Fresh, Ripe Pineapples
Firstly, pick pineapples that feel heavy for their size, with vibrant, lush green leaves intact and a sweet fruity aroma. Avoid bruised, dried-out, or mouldy fruits. Ripe ones have golden yellow outer skin with brown fruitlets visible.
Step 2: Chop and Peel
Wash the pineapple thoroughly before placing it on a chopping board. Trim off the crown and base with a sharp knife. Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the skin by carving downwards from top to bottom in strips. Then cut vertically around the eyes.
Step 3: Slice the Fruit Flesh
Once peeled, lay the pineapple sideways and cut into circles or cubes of roughly 1⁄2 to 1-inch thickness. Smaller pieces allow better blending. Discard the hard central woody core that is too fibrous to juice.
Step 4: Blend the Pieces
Transfer the chopped pineapple pieces to a mixer grinder. Add up to 1 cup of water to facilitate even pulping without needing to strain later. Blend on high speed for 2-3 minutes until you obtain a thick, smooth consistency. Add more water if required.
Step 5: Mix in Other Fruits
Moreover, while blending for flavour enhancement, consider adding sweet fruits like orange, sweet lime, grapes, melon, or soft mango pieces. Up to 2 cups of these fruits can nicely supplement 1 medium pineapple.
Step 6: Sweeten as Needed
Taste the blended juice to check its sweetness levels before removing it from the grinder. To balance the pineapple's inherent tartness, mix in 2-3 tsp of sugar, honey, or simple syrup to attain your preferred level of sweetness.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Finally, pour the juice into an airtight bottle or pitcher and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. This allows flavours to fuse well. Serve chilled with lots of ice for a refreshing summer drink!
Pineapple Juice Home Remedies
Here are some DIY pineapple juice remedies for hair, skin and health in detail:
DIY Pineapple Juice Remedies for Hair
- Strengthening Hair Mask: Blend 3 tbsp pineapple juice with 1 tbsp honey and 1 egg yolk. Apply this mask to damp hair post shampoo. Allow it to soak for 20-30 minutes before washing off with cold water and conditioner. The vitamin C and bromelain enzymes nourish hair, reduce breakage and add shine. Use once a week.
- Anti-Dandruff & Volume Booster: Add 4-5 drops of tea tree essential oil to 2 tbsp fresh pineapple juice diluted with water. Massage this mix thoroughly into the scalp and lengths, focusing extra on roots. Allow it to sit for an hour before shampooing as usual. The fruit acids and tea tree oil curb dandruff issues while adding bounce.
DIY Pineapple Juice Remedies for Skin
- Glow Enhancing Facial Toner: Mix freshly extracted pineapple juice and rosewater in equal parts. Dip a cotton pad and sweep it over a cleansed face every morning, focusing more on the T-zone. This gentle toner with vitamin C tightens pores, lightens spots, and boosts radiance with regular use.
- Overnight Brightening Serum: Blend 2 tsp each pineapple juice and aloe vera gel with 2 capsules of vitamin E oil. Apply to face and neck every night post-cleansing. Let it penetrate overnight for deeply hydrated and bright skin by morning. The alpha hydroxy acids polish away pigmentation and dullness remarkably over time.
DIY Pineapple Juice Remedies for Health
- Digestion Aid Drink: Add a pinch of roasted jeera powder and grated ginger to a glass of undiluted pineapple juice. Drink this before meals to stimulate digestion, curb acidity, and prevent bloating. The pineapple's bromelain enzymes also facilitate better absorption of nutrients.
- Immunity & Energy Booster: Mix 2 parts pineapple juice with 1 part pomegranate juice for an antioxidant-rich health tonic. Add a dash of lime and mint for flavour. Having this first thing in the morning provides a burst of vitamins and minerals to kickstart your day with vibrant energy and resilience against infections.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Pineapple Juice
From an Ayurvedic perspective, pineapple juice is considered a beneficial and refreshing drink that aligns with the principles of this ancient holistic system. Ayurveda classifies pineapple juice as a sweet, sour, and slightly astringent fruit, making it excellent for balancing the Vata and Kapha doshas. It is also believed to have a slight heating effect on the body, which helps improve digestion and metabolism.
The juice is rich in enzymes like bromelain, which aid in breaking down proteins, thus enhancing digestive health. It is particularly beneficial in relieving conditions like bloating, indigestion, and constipation. Pineapple juice is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it helpful for individuals with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
Additionally, due to its high vitamin C content, pineapple juice boosts immunity, supports skin health, and acts as a natural detoxifier by flushing out toxins from the body. However, Ayurveda advises consuming it in moderation, especially for individuals with Pitta imbalance or acid reflux, as its sour nature can aggravate these conditions. Drinking fresh pineapple juice, preferably without added sugars, aligns with Ayurvedic principles, promoting overall wellness and vitality.
Pineapple Juice Interactions With Other Drugs
The bromelain in pineapple may interact with some medicines that thin the blood and prevent clotting. These include warfarin, heparin, ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen. It can also react with clopidogrel which is used after stent implants in heart patients.
But you need not completely avoid eating pineapple if taking these drugs. This is because fresh pineapple fruit contains very little bromelain, which is insufficient to cause issues. Medical experts clarify that you would have to eat massive, implausible quantities of pineapple for it to hinder medication effects. Still, exercise precautions, such as limiting pineapple intake to just 1-2 servings per day if you are on blood thinners or anti-inflammatory pills, are advised. This minimises any chances of cross-reactions while letting you enjoy its flavour and benefits.
Conclusion
Pineapple juice offers numerous health, skin, and hair benefits, making it a versatile addition to your daily routine. Rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain, it strengthens the immune system, supports digestion, and helps reduce inflammation. For skin, it provides anti-ageing properties, treats acne, and brightens complexion, while for hair, it promotes growth, reduces scalp inflammation, and prevents hair fall.
However, moderation is key, as excessive consumption can lead to side effects like digestive issues, increased menstrual bleeding, or allergic reactions. It's best to enjoy fresh, homemade pineapple juice to maximise its benefits and avoid potential toxins. This tropical juice can enhance your overall wellness, whether consumed or used topically. Embrace pineapple juice as a natural, refreshing way to boost health and beauty, but always be mindful of your body's reactions and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
FAQs
1. Can we drink pineapple juice daily?
Most healthy people should be able to consume pineapple juice safely. However, it could occasionally result in adverse effects. Allergies: Pineapple juice may cause allergic reactions, such as rash or breathing difficulties, for certain individuals. If you start experiencing any adverse reactions, such as hives, stop drinking it.
2. What is the best time to drink pineapple juice?
Pineapple juice can be consumed at any time of day, but it is best consumed immediately after a meal. Fresh pineapple juice has a high fibre content, which has been demonstrated to help maintain regularity.
3. Is pineapple juice good for the skin?
People in South and Central America have employed the skin-softening enzyme bromelain to treat swelling and inflammation for hundreds of years. Vitamin C and amino acids support cell and tissue healing, while pineapple juice helps the body produce collagen, which keeps skin tight and pliable.
4. Can I drink pineapple juice on an empty stomach?
Pineapples should not be eaten on an empty stomach first thing in the morning as this can lead to acidity.
5. Why is pineapple juice good for women's health?
Due to its high vitamin C content, which supports strong bones and lowers the incidence of osteoporosis, pineapple may be especially beneficial for women. In addition, it contains many B vitamins and copper, two minerals that are critical during pregnancy.
6. What is pineapple juice known for?
Pineapple juice contains numerous vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in vitamins B6, C, manganese, and copper, all necessary for your body to function correctly.
7. Is pineapple good for skin allergies?
Pineapple's minerals, antioxidants, and enzyme bromelain may enhance your skin's health. But merely putting it on your skin could not have any obvious effects and might
References:
- Drinking pineapple juice can help you get rid of a bloated stomach, stomach ache, or other digestive problems. (https://www.researchgate.net/)
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to get rid of the free radicals in the body, thereby protecting you from various illnesses like diabetes, colon cancer, heart diseases, plaque formation in the artery, arthritis etc.(https://www.researchgate.net/)
- Antioxidant molecules in pineapples are abundant and help the body fight against oxidative stress.(https://www.researchgate.net/)
- Multiple studies have linked pineapple and its bioactive ingredient, Bromelain, to a lower risk of cancer by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.(https://www.researchgate.net/)
