5 Reasons Pineapple is Good for Your Health and Your Weight

To some people, the pineapple is native to exotics lands, whereas, some might believe that it was the Spanish who first introduced this fruit in the Philippines. Its leaves were recently found be an alternative to leather, and thus environment-friendly, However, being called ‘Hala Kahiki’ by the Hawaiians, pineapples have been best used for their culinary properties, to make a good fruit salad, an exotic cocktail, and delicious entrées.

However, is a pineapple only good for food, or does it have any hidden benefits to our health? Here are 5 reasons why a pineapple is good for your health and your weight too:

1- Helps digestion

The pineapple is the only tropical fruit, which contains Bromelain, or more commonly known as “Pineapple extract”. Bromelain is basically an enzyme which breaks down proteins. It is claimed to be highly effective in aiding digestion and reducing your internal inflammation, which both help in reducing weight on noticeable margin. Moreover, it also helps in a healthy blood regulatory system and maintaining your cardiovascular system.

2- Prevents constipation

Pineapple is high in insoluble fibres which will stimulate the intestinal tract and fight constipation with regular bowel movements.

3- Detoxification & weight loss

Regularly consuming pineapple will have diuretic properties by increasing the passing of urine. This comes with the benefit of flushing out toxins stored in the body. This is a great support if you are looking at slimming down by eliminating fat and sugars. This helps in keeping your immune system safe from any foreign agents, which might be a threat to your internal functions.

4- Prevents Water Retention

Excess body weight is not only related to fat but can be influenced by an excess water retention in your body. Water build ups are also known as edema and can have several causes such as an increased pressure in the capillaries. Water retention is also responsible for cellulite. The draining properties of pineapple will help regulate your internal body fluids.4. Prevents water retention:

5- Good for your skin

Pineapple is also known to facilitate the skin healing process, protect it from infection and irritation such as eczema, and is known to smoothen the skin appearance. Rich in minerals, particularly manganese, it also contains vitamins including vitamin C. It is an antioxidant to help fight free radicals. Its detoxification and draining properties have a direct impact on the reduction of cellulite which in turn reduces the orange peel look: the bromelain enzyme destroys the collagen fibres which surround fat cells and are responsible for cellulite. It also prevents fat to store in adipose tissues such as on your thighs and tummy areas.

The Bottom Line

A pineapple fruit can add tanginess and an exotic touch to your desserts, dishes or drinks. Doubled up with its healing properties, and its vitamins content, it can certainly be a great support for your weight loss or detox programs, as well as a relief to water retention. Remember that the pineapple is still a fruit that can be high in sugar, especially when in juice, as it loses its fibre content and its glycemic index rises. As an alternative to using fresh pineapple, consider using pineapple extracts in the form of a supplement. It will have the same effects, and even higher if concentrated, minus the calories.

Our healthy way to cook grilled pineapple

Ingredients:

– 1 fresh pineapple – peeled, cored and cut into 1-inch rings
– 1/4 teaspoon honey
– 3 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 dash hot pepper sauce
– salt to taste

Directions:

Place pineapple in a large resealable plastic bag. Add honey, butter, hot pepper sauce, and salt. Seal bag, and shake to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.

Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat, and lightly oil grate.

Grill pineapple for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until heated through and grill marks appear.

To discover easy homemade recipes for smoothies that help you lose weight, see our recommended guides:
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Easy Healthy Smoothie

We’ve selected a range of supplements:

Made of 100% natural active ingredients
Completely bioavailable and biocompatible
In “Controlled release” microgranules form to ensure prolonged effectiveness and targeted action in the body

Images Credit: Depositphotos, Shutterstock
Sources:
http://www.healthsomeness.com/pineapple-weight-loss/
http://theheartysoul.com/pineapple-health-benefits/
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/51294/grilled-pineapple/