The juicy pulp of the pineapplewith an exotic aroma and refreshing flavor between sweet and acidic, is a good source of vitamin C and a great ally against stomach heaviness. On a festive table it shines with its own light. Discover its properties and health benefits!
Origin of pineapple
The pineapple, Ananas comosusis called that because of its similarity to pine cones, although the term «ananás» derives from the Tupi language, from Brazil, where they call it nanás, which means «delicious fruit» or «fruit blossom.»
The pineapple plant is as peculiar as its fruit, since They only produce three pineapples on average throughout their life, with the first being (generally) larger. Fortunately, you can get several cuttings of a main stem to increase its production.
The pineapple was a symbol of hospitality in indigenous tribes and was offered to visitors as a sign of friendship. Christopher Columbus, On his second trip in November 1493, he found her on the island of Guadeloupe.
Spanish sailors soon discovered that consuming pineapples on their voyages They could prevent scurvy. Since then the production of this tropical fruit has spread throughout the world.
Nutritional values of pineapple
How many calories does pineapple have?
- Calories: 48 kcal
- Proteins: 0.5g
- Fats: 0.12g
- carbohydrates: 12.6g
- Fiber: 1.4g
Pineapple properties
The main nutritional component of pineapple, like most fruits, is water (85%), hence it is a food very low in calories. This disproves the popular belief that pineapple makes you fatquite the opposite.
Fresh pineapple is rich in vitamins, mainly in vitamin C (12 mg/100 g). It also contains vitamins A, B1 and folic acid, but in lower percentages than vitamin C.
Regarding the mineral content, it is worth noting its rich in potassium, and at a distance, in magnesium and iron.
Pineapple has an enzyme, bromelain, which is found in the stem and fruit, which facilitates digestion. Specifically, it has the virtue of break down proteins and convert them into amino acids, which favors the digestive process.
Health benefits of pineapple
The pineapple It is considered a «medicine» for its richness in vitamins, but above all for the properties of the enzyme it contains. Below we detail its incredible health benefits:
1. It is the digestive fruit par excellence
The inclusion of pineapple in the first dishes is especially beneficial because stimulates the production of gastric juices. It is especially indicated for digesting proteins.
People with dyspepsia, either due to hypochlorhydria – lack of gastric juices – or gastric atony – difficulty emptying the contents of the stomach – have pineapple. an ally if taken fresh, Because with heat the action of bromelain is canceled.
However, the consumption of pineapple is contraindicated in people who suffer from gastroduodenal ulcer and gastritis due to its acid content and its ability to increase the production of gastric juices.
2. Antidiarrheal
It has been indicated in cases of diarrhea, since it seems inhibit the growth of intestinal microbes (antiputrid action) and improves the receptors of the intestine. Both the fruit and the root decoction are traditionally recommended in the treatment of intestinal parasites.
3. Purifying
Pineapple is an excellent liver remedy and it is known that its regular consumption increases circulation in this vital organ.
4. Anti-inflammatory
It exerts a notable anti-inflammatory action, useful in cases of tendinitis and rheumatic conditions with edema of the limbs.
5. Protective against cancer
It interferes with the development of malignant cells (reducing the risk of metastasis of some types of cancer) and appears to enhance the effects of chemotherapy.
6. Heart-healthy
Inhibits platelet aggregation and exerts fibrinolytic activity, which reduces the risk of embolisms.
7. Anticatarrhal
In case of a cold, catarrh or sinusitis, especially if it is accompanied by mucus, pineapple is an excellent food supplement, since by exerting a proteolytic action dissolves mucus, It makes them more liquid and helps enormously to eliminate them.
His vitamin C content It is also no stranger to this beneficial action against colds and coughs.
8. Good for the skin
Another health benefit of pineapple is that it helps cleanse and heal skin ulcers, and improve the healing of burns.
Pineapple in the kitchen
Taken naturally it allows you to fully enjoy all its appetizer and digestive properties. However, its original texture and flavor, between sweet and acidic, make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
It can be used to prepare sweet recipes and desserts how to use it in a host of savory dishes, just as it has been done in oriental cuisine, especially in spicy recipes and curries.
Its aromatic pulp, fleshy and consistent, makes it ideal for grilling, on the grill or in countless stews. This exotic fruit can be used to enrich rice dishes or as a delicious garnish, which also takes advantage of its proteolytic effect.
For that same reason, pineapple is a very interesting in seitan recipes or others rich in protein, but also filled with vegetables and other vegetarian delicacies, to which it brings light and joy.
Purchase and conservation of pineapple
To know if a pineapple is at its peak, neither green nor overripe, you must observe the following aspects:
- Color: To facilitate its conservation, pineapple is usually harvested before ripening. Now, if it is picked very green it does not develop its flavor and fragrance. When ripe it acquires a beautiful golden color, but some varieties have green rind even when ripe. The tip of the scales then offers a brownish tone.
- Leaves: They must be green and rigid. When you gently pull on the interiors, they come off easily.
- Scent: If the pineapple is ripe, its base gives off an intense and pleasant aroma.
- Weight: It should have a good weight in relation to size.
- Consistency: the crust should give slightly under the pressure of your fingers.
Pineapple should be consumed as soon as possible once purchased, although it can be kept for a few days in a cool, dry place, and on a soft base. It should never be stored in the refrigerator, unless it is already peeled and cut.