6| Nutrition Magazine October 20 1 5
Demystifying
Nutrition
The pineapple(Ananas comosus) is a tropical plant with ediblemultiple fruit consisting of
coalesced berries,and the most economically significant plant in theBromeliacece family.
The pineapple is believed to be native to southern Brazil and Paraguay where wild relatives
occur. The pineapple ?fruit? is not really a fruit at all but is a mass of individual berries fused
to the central stalk. Did you know that Pineapples can be consumed fresh, cooked and
juiced? Pineapples have exceptional juiciness and a vibrant tropical flavor that balances the
tastes of sweet and tart.
Heal t h benef it s Fresh pineapple is low in calories. Nonetheless, it is a storehouse for
several unique health promoting compounds, minerals and vitamins that are essential for
optimum health.
Its flesh contains no saturated fats or cholesterol; however, it is rich source of fibre that is
good for the body when taken as a fruit..
Pineapple fruit contains a proteolytic enzyme bromelainthat digests food by breaking
down prot ein. Bromelain also has anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting and anti-cancer
properties. Studies have shown that consumption of pineapple regularly helps fight against
arthritis, indigestion and worm infestation.
Pineapple is also known for its high level of manganese. The Manganese mineral is an
essential element for energy production, while protecting your cells from free radicals. It
helps your body use key nutrients including thiamine and biotin, keeps your bones healthy
and helps synthesise fatty foods.
It also contains small amount Vitamin A (provides 58 IU per 100 g) and beta-carotene levels.
These compounds are known to have antioxidant properties. Vitamin A is also required
maintaining healthy mucusa, skin and is essential for vision. .