Food Focus: Pineapple

Food Focus: Pineapple

Did you know that pineapple is a compound fruit? I didn’t even know what a compound fruit was until I did my research for this article. A compound fruit is a fruit that develops from many small fruits that become fused together around a central core. It’s low in calories: around 50 calories/100 grams (approx. 3/5 cup) and contains a digestive enzyme called bromelain that digests food by breaking down the proteins. Bromelain has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as anti-clotting and anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that regular consumption of pineapple helps prevent arthritis (note—“-itis” indicates inflammation), indigestion and worm infestation.

In terms of percentage of RDA, pineapple contains:

• Vitamins
  • Folates – 4.5%
  • Niacin – 4%
  • Pyridoxine – 9%
  • Riboflavin – 1.5%
  • Thiamin – 6.5%
  • Vitamin A – 2%
  • Vitamin C – 80%
  • Vitamin E – <1%
  • Vitamin K – 0.5%
• Electrolytes
  • Potassium – 2.5%
• Minerals
  • Calcium – 13%
  • Copper – 12%
  • Iron – 3.5%
  • Magnesium – 3%
  • Manganese – 40%
  • Phosphorous – 1%
  • Selenium – <1%
  • Zinc – 1%

Pineapple has always been one of my favorite fruits. I also love to make fresh pineapple/carrot juice. Yummy.

Reference: http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/pineapple.html