Pineapple health benefits: Pineapples are a healthy choice for people who are looking to lose weight because they contain low calories while being loaded with nutrients, disease-fighting antioxidants, digestion-easing enzymes, and may help to reduce the risk of some cancers.

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MD

Pineapples are one of the most fascinating fruits.

The name “pineapple” comes from a word used by explorers who first discovered it, meaning pine cone. They have been cultivated for over 4,000 years and have made their way into many cuisines around the world. Pineapples are an amazing and versatile fruit with many health benefits.

Pineapple Origins

Pineapples originated in South America near the equator where they still grow wild today. Although originally from Brazil, they were first cultivated by the Tupi people of modern-day Brazil and Paraguay. Spanish explorers introduced pineapples to Europe in 1493 after finding them on a Caribbean island where Columbus had landed only months before.

Pineapples are a member of the bromeliad family, which also includes Spanish moss and some air plants. The pineapple is not really an apple at all but rather a “multiple fruit” that consists of 100-200 individual berries that have fused together. Each one contains its own seed.

Pineapple Health Benefits

Pineapples are rich in Vitamin C which helps your body fight infections and produce collagen for healthy. They also contain bromelain, an enzyme that helps the body break down proteins and may help to reduce inflammation such as arthritis. Some of the pineapple’s other health benefits include reducing tiredness in people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), lowering high blood pressure, easing digestion.

Pineapples are very low in calories, about 60 calories per cup. They contain no saturated or trans fat and have zero cholesterol. One pineapple will yield approximately two to three cups of pineapple chunks which is great for adding to smoothies, yogurt parfaits, salads, desserts like pineapple upside-down cake, cocktails, and more!

Basic Pineapple Sauce Recipe

This pineapple sauce recipe is a healthy, easy-to-use go-to for your next dish. The Paleo, gluten-free, dairy-free & grain-free means it’s perfect as an addition when making chicken or seafood because of its sauces’ versatility!

Ingredients:

1 pineapple, chopped

1-2 tsp monk fruit sweetener

1 pinch sea salt

Option add-ins:

You can make your pineapple sauce spicy by adding a pinch of turmeric, garlic, or cayenne pepper. This makes the sauce a great addition to pork and chicken dishes.

Directions:

1. Blend pineapple, monk fruit sweetener, and salt in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour into a small saucepan
3. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the sauce has reduced by half.
4. Cool the sauce before using it. The pineapple sauce can be stored in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

 

Enjoy!’

 

Medical Disclaimer: This article is based on the opinions of the author. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Cell Health News and its associates. This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MD for the accuracy of the information provided, but Cell Health News encourages you to make your own healthcare decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.