Pineapple Nutrition Facts

Pineapple, also known as Piña, Nanas and Ananas, is second most famous tropical fruits loved all over the world. It was originally native to Brazil and Paraguay and is believed to have been introduced in Europe by Christopher Columbus. Appropriately the season of pineapple is between March and June, but it is available in the local markets of several places in the world for the whole yearlong. The pineapple is naturally sweet and sour in taste and hence, a favorite among majority of the population in the world.

Nutritional Facts about Pineapple

• The natural composition of pineapple consists of calories, minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese and selenium); sugars (glucose, dextrose, fructose); and vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E, K), etc.
• 85 calories are found in 1 oz. or 28g of dried pineapple.
• Approximately same, i.e., 82.5 calories are gotten from 165g of fresh pineapple chunks.
• Interestingly, ½ cup of canned pineapple contains 80 calories.
• Nearly all the calories in pineapple come from the sugars present in it.
• This fruit contains minimum fat and sodium content and no-cholesterol at all.
• Pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C or ascorbic acid. 15mg vitamin C is present in per 100 grams of fresh pineapple.
• Nearly all the types of vitamin B are also found in pineapple making it one of the healthiest fruits known.
• However, pineapples contain high amount of sugar, i.e., 1.7 g (glucose) and 1.9 g (fructose) per 100 grams of serving.
• Pineapples contain substantial amount of sugar, and hence, it is not recommended for diabetics.

Pineapple Health Benefits
As the above pineapple nutrition facts state that there are several minerals and vitamins found in this fruit; it surely serves several health benefits to human beings.

• Pineapple contains good amount of fiber and hence, it treats and prevents intestinal disorders and also soothes the bile.
• Vitamin B1 found in pineapple helps in increasing blood circulation as well as increases the supply of oxygen to blood cells. Vitamin B1 also helps in metabolism of carbohydrates in the body.
• As mentioned above, pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C which helps in enhancing the immune system, which consequently, helps in keeping infectious diseases at bay.
• Manganese present in pineapples is used for production of energy in the body.
• Manganese in pineapple is a co-enzyme that helps the body use vitamin B1 and vitamin C.
• Pineapple contains an enzyme known as Bromelain which helps in neutralizing fluids in the body.
• This enzyme also breaks down the excess mucus and provides relief in condition like bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis and asthma.
• Bromelain also helps in reducing inflammation and swelling caused in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, gout, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis.
• It is advisable to consume pineapple in between meals to avoid inflammation caused due to bromelain.
• Pineapple is believed to lower the risk of age related macular degeneration in people. It also helps in maintaining proper eyesight.

All the above mentioned nutrients are found in all varieties of pineapples. Also, it can be eaten in raw, cooked or juice form. However, if one wishes to enjoy all the health benefits, it is advisable to consume fresh pineapple and not canned or dried versions. The above mentioned facts definitely suggest that pineapple is one of the best and most nutritious fruits known to man.