The pineapple is a fusion of many smaller fruits merged together around an inner core. This inner core serves a supporting function. The pulp of the fruit is fleshy and juicy with a sweet mildly tart flavor. The color of the ripe fruit ranges from yellowish to a reddish tone.
Once picked, the fruit does not ripen further, so it is best to seek out a piece that is heavy for its size to ensure that you get the best tasting one. While pineapples can be stored at room temperature, they do spoil easily, so it is best not to let them sit out for more than a day or two. Alternately, for the sake of convenience, the fruit can be cut, packaged and placed in the refrigerator soon after purchase. According to one study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry this will not adversely affect its nutritional profile to any significant degree for six to nine days.
Pineapple & Beetroot Juice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- One small beetroot
- Half a lemon
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
Skin and core the pineapple and cut into small pieces. Wash the beetroot and cut into pieces after peeling.
Juice and serve.
Add-ons
- Cucumber
Nutritional Information
Pineapple is unique because it is the only known source of an enzyme called bromelain. It also supplies key nutrients like thiamin, vitamin A, C and B6, riboflavin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, potassium, manganese, beta-carotene, polyphenols, calcium and iron. In fact one cup of freshly cut pineapple contains no fat or cholesterol, one gram of protein and 2.3 grams of fiber. All this goodness is accompanied with only a modest 83 calories per cup.
Health Benefits of Pineapple
The bromelain in pineapples is effective against a number of ailments. It is useful in preventing blood clots and thus reduces the risk of heart attacks. Bromelain is also marketed in Germany as a natural anti-inflammatory supplement that may be effective against painful joints and is approved by Commission E. Being a digestive enzyme it is helpful against conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, gas and bloating.
The large amount of manganese in pineapples is beneficial for building healthy bones and strengthening weak ones. The beta-carotene is beneficial for good eyesight and reducing the risks of age related macular degradation. Furthermore, it has proven to play a positive role in deterring prostate cancer according to a Harvard School of Public Health’s Department of Nutrition and hinder colon cancer in Japanese population.