Pineapples are a perfect snack to eat during these dreary winter months, and they might help solve digestion problems too! Digestive problems can occur from serious health issues like Crohn’s disease or can be a result of an increase in stress and lack of exercise. Medications can help serious digestive problems, but many times, a switch in diet can work wonders. Adding certain foods into your diet can help lessen digestive issues—but is pineapple one of them?
The Institute of Medicine states that “The average adult only eats 15 grams of fiber per day. Women need 25 grams of fiber per day, and men need 38 grams per day,” as stated on a medical information website, WebMD. According to this statistic, it is obvious that the average person isn’t consuming enough fiber. Lack of fiber can contribute to a lack of relief, and therefore, it is important to eat foods that have high fiber contents. A health and wellness website, Live Strong, states that “Enjoying a serving of pineapple helps improve digestion by providing fiber and a certain type of digestive enzyme,” which, in turn, will help digestion run smoother. Adding fiber-filled foods into your diet will help the digestive track of those who aren’t eating enough fiber; however, Live Strong warns to be careful when eating pineapple because consuming too much of this fruit may actually cause stomach pains. As with all foods, eat in moderation!
Before you run out and buy foods high in fiber, it is important to know the difference between soluble fibers and insoluble fibers. WebMD explains that “soluble fibers attract water and form a gel, which slows down digestion [whereas] insoluble fibers […] have a laxative effect and add bulk to the diet, helping prevent constipation.” Pineapples, it has been found, contain a high level of insoluble fiber. Live Strong tells us that “While high-fiber foods usually contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, most of the fiber in pineapple is soluble”; therefore, your body will be able to more efficiently take in and use, all the vitamins and minerals you consume. Insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water and can help prevent constipation because “they pass through the gastrointestinal tract relatively intact, and speed up the passage of food and waste through your gut,” WebMD states. Live Strong also points out that the insoluble fiber in pineapple also “keeps you regular and creates soft easy-to-pass stools.” Lastly, pineapples are full of an enzyme called bromelain which also contributes in making digestion easier. Bromelain, an enzyme that digests proteins, “aids digestion by enhancing the effects of the digestive enzymes trypsin and pepin,” a health information website, World Health, explains.
Verdict: Fact. Pineapples can help improve digestion; however, it might not work for everyone. Pineapples have a high acid level and, in some cases, could make stomach problems worse. Speak to your doctor to find out if incorporating pineapple into your diet can help your digestive track.
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