4 Reasons You Need Pineapple in Your Life
There are many reasons to have pineapple in your diet. I am Dr. Aaron Workman from one of the highest rated auto injury medical teams in Kentucky and I found my love of pineapple when I ate my first fresh cut piece. It is a sweet, juicy, tropical taste that is not just a delicious fruit but a powerhouse of health benefits. It can be used in many ways. Whether you enjoy it fresh, grilled, blended into smoothies, or added into savory meals, here are four reasons why pineapple should be a standard in your life.
One of the biggest reasons to include pineapple in your diet is its nutrient profile. This tropical fruit is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, manganese, vitamin B6, copper and iron. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system, promotes skin health, and aids in iron absorption. Manganese is essential for bone health, metabolism, and antioxidant defense. One cup of pineapple has half the manganese you need daily. Vitamin B6 plays a big role in brain health and mood regulation, while copper contributes to energy production and collagen formation.
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which is known for its digestive benefits. This enzyme helps break down proteins in the digestive system, aiding in digestion and reducing bloating and discomfort. Regular consumption can support a healthy digestive system and helps the symptoms of indigestion.
As mentioned above pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C. One cup of pineapple has around 88% of your recommended daily dose of vitamin C. Most understand we should have vitamin C when we have a cold or the flu but what about adding this into your weekly diet during the cold and flu season? This juicy fruit can help support the immune system when it needs it most. Adequate intake of vitamin C can help reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu. By just incorporating pineapple into your diet, you can strengthen your body’s defenses against infections and illnesses, especially during the cold and flu season.
This fruit is also versatile in the kitchen. You can enjoy it fresh as a snack, add it to fruit salads, serve it cold or room temperature, or use it to sweeten smoothies and desserts. Pineapple also pairs well with a variety of savory dishes. I enjoy adding its sweet and tangy flavor to stir-fries, grilled meats, and seafood. Grilled pineapple makes a great addition to burgers, sandwiches, kebabs and even pizzas.
As you can see, pineapple is more than just a tasty fruit. It can help do it all, from supporting digestion, aiding immunity, providing a source for multiple nutrients, and serving as a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. This readily available food deserves a spot in your kitchen. So, next time you are at the grocery store, be sure to give pineapple a try.
— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.