Bromelain Side Effects

Bromelain is actually one of the protease enzymes that are extracted from Bromeliaceae plant family (pineapple belongs to this family). Bromelain is very useful for the digestion of protein. Bromelain is the mixture of sulfur containing enzymes that are called proteolytic enzymes. Two main bromelain enzymes are fruit bromelain and stem bromelain. Other than that, it also includes, acid phosphatase, peroxidase, calcium and protease inhibitors. Bromelain is present in all parts of the pineapple plant. However, consumption of only pineapple will not give the desired bromelain effect. For the same reason, bromelain capsules and tablets are prepared, using the bromelain extracts from the pineapple stems, that are least edible.

Benefits of Bromelain

There are many chemical as well as medicinal uses of bromelain extract. Bromelain is used for tenderizing meats, along with papain (an protease enzyme in papaya). More than 90% of bromelain is used as meat tenderizers and it is available in powdered form, so one can easily mix it into the marinades or sprinkle it over meats. Bromelain helps the process of forking or penetration of the meat. Many prepared meat products are tenderized this way.

Most significant benefits of bromelain are observed, health wise. There are many medical conditions that can be healed or soothed with the use of bromelain extract. Many scientific researches also defend medicinal properties of bromelain. These properties are to reduce swelling, scar healing, reduce pain after surgery, increase digestion, treat sinusitis and osteoarthritis. Bromelain tablets are also suggested as complimentary medicines in the treatment of various types of cancer.

Side Effects of Bromelain

Overdose of bromelain supplements, that are available in the form of tablets and capsules, can lead to several side effects of bromelain.

Gastrointestinal Effects
These are the most common side effects that are experienced by people with overdose of bromelain. These side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, palpitation, indigestion, loss of appetite, headache, muscle pain, dizziness, drowsiness and lethargy. Women can experience uterine bleeding and heavy menstruation as well. It is also suggested that people with peptic ulcer should not consume bromelain in any form. Also, people with any other digestive disorder should consult the health care provider before using bromelain.

Allergic Reactions
Another major side effect that is observed is mild to severe sorts of allergies. These are skin allergies and also digestive allergies (mentioned above). Skin allergies include hives, skin rash, itching and swelling of skin. Other than that, a person may also suffer from breathing problems and tightness in throat. People that have allergies from carrot, fennel, celery, rye, papaya, birch or cypress pollen, certain grass or latex, may suffer with the side effects that are similar to the usual side effects they experience.

Heavy Bleeding
Bromelain is theoretically said to increase blood flow. So, people that are suffering with blood disorders or bleeding disorders and taking treatments for the same should not use bromelain, to avoid any bromelain side effects. They are advised to use bromelain only after medical intervention and strict medical supervision. Bromelain should also not be taken two to three weeks prior to any dental operations and surgeries. It is safe not to use bromelain when pregnant and nursing. Also, people that are suffering with liver disease and kidney disease should avoid it.

Drug Interactions
There are possible drug and herb interactions with those consuming bromelain. Especially people who are consuming blood thinners or anti platelet and anticoagulant medicines like warfarin, aspirin, heparin, clopidogrel bisulfate, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc can have several side effects, if not taken with proper medical intervention. Side effects of bromelain can also be seen to people taking herbs and herbal medicines like garlic and ginkgo biloba. Chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, high blood pressure medications, benzodiazepines lorazepam, diazepam, narcotics and antidepressants can also interact with bromelain supplements.

To avoid the the side effects, it is always best to use bromelain after proper consultation with your doctor and required precautionary measures.