Pineapples are my go-to fruit when I need help decreasing inflammation. When your body is fighting an infection or injury, inflammation occurs naturally as part of the body's immune response — and a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, like pineapple, can help reduce it.
How to Pick a Good Pineapple
A few quick checks at the store make all the difference:
Aroma
Give it a sniff before you buy. A fresh, sweet smell means it's likely ripe — skip any with sour, mildew, or vinegar-like smells.
Firmness
Ripe pineapple should have just a little give when you squeeze it — not too soft or mushy.
Leaves
Leaves should be green, not wilted, yellow, or brown, and shouldn't pull away from the stem easily.
Weight
A pineapple should feel heavy for its size — that means plenty of juice inside.
When your muscles work hard, they produce inflammation — a normal part of the body's immune response to fighting infection or injury. An enzyme called bromelain in pineapple helps suppress inflammation, which can reduce the pain and swelling associated with sports injuries and osteoarthritis.
Anti-Inflammatory Pineapple Videos
Pineapple Peel Benefits
Check out this quick video on how I use pineapples to minimize inflammation.
Post-Workout Recovery Drink
To relieve soreness and speed up recovery, this is my go-to anti-inflammatory drink after a hard workout.
Ways to Add Pineapple to Your Diet
Ginger Turmeric Tea
Pineapple peel, ginger, and turmeric boost the immune-building power of your tea — and the color.
Ginger Mint Tea
Add about 3 sprigs of fresh mint for a cooling boost in minty flavor.
Sage Tea
Add about 3 fresh sage leaves — great for soothing a sore throat.
Cinnamon Tea
Add a cinnamon stick for a warming, spiced holiday tea.
Pineapple Ginger Inflammation Drink
MY APPROACHMost of the Benefits Live in the Peel and Core
I focus on quick and easy tips for foods that help prevent and treat various illnesses. Most diseases stem from inflammation, so most of my content focuses on decreasing inflammation throughout the body — and I believe certain foods help strengthen your immune system against everyday illness.
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Follow along for more anti-inflammatory tips, recipes, and real talk on natural wellness.
Although I am a pharmacist, the content in this blog post is for informational purposes only. I can't be held responsible for your results & choices. I encourage you to do your due diligence on the possible health benefits/side effects of pineapple before using it to help manage inflammation.