Let’s get the ‘nutrition facts’ straight for this fleshy, spiky cool tropical fruit.
Pineapples are undoubtedly the most sought-after fruit. They are tasty, juicy with a high nutritional value, healthy calories and serve on the ingredient lists for many recipes. Whether sweet or salty, their tangy tarty flavor adds another dimension to any recipe they are added to.
Talking about nutrients, pineapples are rich in carbohydrates, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron that regulate various body functions. So, in order to get maximum benefits out of this amazing fruit, one can consume them in the form of juice, eat raw, add to sauces, roast, grill or bake.
Let’s deep dive into the nutritional value that a 100 gms serving of pineapple provides:
PINEAPPLE NUTRITION CHART |
|
Amount per 100 gms | |
48 Calories | |
Carbohydrates | 13.50 gms |
Proteins | 0.60 gms |
Fats | 0.20 gms |
Sugar | 9.00 gms |
Vitamins | Vitamin B1, B6, C (Major) |
Vitamin A, K (Minor) | |
Minerals | Manganese, Potassium, Calcium (Major) |
Magnesium, Zinc, Copper (Minor) |
Benefits of eating Pineapples
After having a look at the nutritional value, let’s have a look at the benefits that can be derived from eating this fruit:
- A 100 gms serving of the fruit fulfills 80% of the Vitamin C’s daily requirement of the body. Vitamin C is very essential as it strengthens immunity, fights free radicals and keeps skin healthy and young.
- Dietary fiber and vitamin C promote digestive health.
- Another nutrient that pineapples are rich in is Manganese which keeps our bones strong, heals wounds and aids in the metabolization/ utilization of proteins, carbs, Vitamin B, C, E in body.
- Pineapple’s are also, rich in Bromelain. It’s an enzyme found in the fruit and stem that helps in curing body pains, inflammation and congestion of the nasal passage.
- Pineapple juice can serve as your natural energy booster drink since it has antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can give an instant dash of energy when required.
- Presence of minerals like copper, zinc, folate, Vitamins B, C and A make it a perfect fruit for couples planning for pregnancy.
- Pineapples aid in weight loss. Thanks to the lower calories, fats, high fibre and water content. Infact, pineapple juice can be consumed before a workout for energy and weight loss benefits.
- Application of pineapple juice to skin is said to make it acne and scare free, along with making it younger, smooth and supple.
- Effectively fights against lifestyle diseases.
- It supports hair growth, making it thicker and shinier.
Side Effects of eating Pineapples
While we know the nutrition facts that make pineapples a good eat, one must be aware of it’s side effects too. Here are a few:
- Excessive intake of pineapples might cause irritation in throat, lips, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach aches, acidity etc. This happens because of Bromelain and Vitamin C.
- Eating too much can spike blood sugar as well.
- Its okay to eat pineapples during pregnancy however, too much of it can cause abnormal bleeding that can be harmful for the mother and the child.
- Though pineapples are good for bones, their acidic nature can wear off the tooth enamel and cause damage.
Best Time To Eat:
Mornings are the best time to eat pineapple. It can also be taken before your workout sessions.
Recipes:
Pineapple salads, Pudding, Salsa, Mocktails, Cocktails, Cakes, Smoothies, Ice creams, Halwas, Chutneys