Pineapple is an exotic fruit that may help reduce inflammation and promote healthy tissue growth.
Pineapple contains an active compound called bromelain, which many people take as a dietary supplement because of its potential health benefits.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health state that bromelain can help with reducing nasal inflammation or sinusitis. However, scientists need to carry out more research into its benefits for osteoarthritis and its anticancer potential.
Pineapples contain manganese, which the body uses to build bone and tissue. A medium slice of pineapple also contains the following nutrients:
- 42 calories
- 11.02 g carbohydrate
- 1.2 g fiber
- 92 mg potassium
- 40.2 mg vitamin C
- 11 mg calcium
Read more about the benefits of pineapple, the pineapple juice, and potential bromelain benefits.
How to eat pineapple
People can enjoy fresh pineapple by itself or in fruit salads. They can also use pineapple to make a tropical salsa or add it as a topping on fish tacos. Try adding frozen pineapple to smoothies.
Bananas are well known for their high potassium content. A medium banana contains 422 mg of the adequate adult intake of 4,500 mg of potassium. Potassium helps the body control heart rate and blood pressure.
Bananas are also a good source of energy, with one banana containing 105 calories and 26.95 g of carbohydrate.
The 3.1 g of fiber in a regular banana can also help with regular bowel movements and stomach issues, such as ulcers and colitis.
A medium banana also contains the following nutrients:
- 1.29 g protein
- 6 mg calcium
- 32 mg magnesium
- 10.3 mg vitamin C
How to eat bananas
A banana is an excellent fruit to use to thicken a smoothie. People can also use them in baking as a natural sweetener or to make banana bread or pancakes.