Benefits Of Pineapple

• Pineapple is known to be very effective in curing constipation and irregular bowel movements. This is because; it is rich in fiber, which makes bowel movements regular and efficient.
• For any kind of morning sickness, motion sickness or nausea, drink pineapple juice. It works effectively in getting rid of nausea and vomiting sensations.
• It has virtually no fat and cholesterol and is loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins that are needed by the body for overall growth and development.
• The juice from fresh pineapple can be used to relieve bronchitis, diphtheria and chest congestion. Not only does it have enough amounts of Vitamin C, but it also contains an enzyme called bromelain (an extract from the stem of pineapples), which is known to dissolve and loosen up mucus. It is the bromelain present in pineapple which helps in loosening the mucus.
• Bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties, which benefits the internal organs, accelerates the recovery from internal injuries and reduces swelling. Pineapple also reduces 'ulcerative colitis'.
• Pineapple is very effective in fighting viruses, which spreads cold and cough. If you are infected with the ailment, intake of fresh pineapple juice can help you recover quickly.
• Pineapple is effective in getting rid of intestinal worms and also keeps the intestines and kidneys clean. It is effective in flushing out the toxins from the body, thus making the body metabolism strong.
• Pineapples are very rich in manganese; manganese is required for the growth of healthy bones and tissues.
• Pineapples are rich in Vitamin C and thus, help prevent gum disease and also prevent the formation of plaque, consequently keeping the teeth healthy.
• Pineapple discourages blood clot development, which makes it a valuable diet for frequent fliers and those who are at a risk of forming blood clots in their bodies.
• Effective in preventing macular degeneration, pineapple reduces the risk of getting affected by this disease. Macular degeneration causes vision loss in adults, mainly due to the damage of retina when the reading, doing daily chores and recognizing faces become difficult.
• Regular intake of pineapple reduces the risk of hypertension as it contains  sodium and potassium. Including potassium and sodium in the diet lowers the blood pressure in the body.
• Consumption of pineapple improves the elasticity of the skin apart from improving skin hydration and removing dead and damaged cells.

Buying & Storing Tips

• Buy only those pineapples that are heavy in size.
• Buy those that are free of soft or dark spots or bruises.
• Store the pineapples at room temperature for one or two days before you serve them; this makes the fruit soft and juicy. If you intend to keep them for more than two days, cover it in a plastic bag and refrigerate it where it can be preserved for three to five days.

• Before you cut the pineapple, cut the crown and base of the fruit, using a knife.
• Before peeling it, place the fruit side down, slice the skin and carve the remaining core using the tip of the knife.  
• Using the knife, separate the fruit from the skin and once it is removed, cut the fruit as per your requirements.
• Add pineapple to fruit salads, especially the ones with papaya, mango and kiwi.
• Chopped pineapple along with grated fennel and cashews goes well as a side dish for chicken.