The pineapple is native to South America and was introduced to America in the 1400s. The first recording of it being eaten dates back to 1398, but that is not definitive. The pineapple is actually a cluster of berries that grow on the pineapple plant that only reaches a height of approximately 5 ft. The natural pollinator of the pineapple is the hummingbird. This pollination requirement is necessary for the plant to bear fruit, therefore each pineapple plant has to be pollinated by hand. More than half of the pineapples sold are produced in Costa Rica.
The flavorful sweet and juicy taste of the pineapple is enticing and the fruit is also full of essential vitamins and minerals.
The pineapple contains 131% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of Vitamin C. It also contains 120 mg of potassium, and 2% of the RDA of Vitamin A, Calcium and Iron and 2 grams of fiber. In addition to the nutritional values, pineapple, like most fruits and vegetables contain a variety of antioxidants, which promote good health in various ways. Listed below are some of the health benefits of the pineapple.
- Prevents Macular Degeneration: Macular degeneration can occur with age, causing loss of eyesight. Due to a large amount of vitamin C found in the pineapple, it helps prevent this degenerative issue.
- Promotes Healthy Digestion: Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, the pineapple provides nutrients that are crucial to a healthy digestive system. When the digestive system functions appropriate, the risk of many diseases is lowered.
- Prevents Blood Clots: Blood clots can be prevented or at the very least reduced, due to the bromelain content found in the pineapple.
- Reduces Inflammation: Sinus inflammation and coughs commonly occur due to allergies and inflammation. Due to the high content of vitamin C that is found in the pineapple, it can help reduce sinus issues, common colds, allergy symptoms as well as pain that are experienced as a result of joint inflammation.
In addition to the health benefits of pineapple, it is also a good meat tenderizer, which does not contain the typical chemicals found in processed meat tenderizers.
About the Pineapple
The pineapple fruit is used in a variety of culinary dishes ranging from main course meals to desserts and is frequently enjoyed cooked, pureed, juiced or preserved for later use. Fortunately with the advanced technology available to us today, many fruits and vegetables are frozen, freeze-dried or air-dried in a process referred to as individually quick-frozen, or IQF. This method quickly preserves the fruit and all the nutrients are locked in. When the fruit is in the form, it not only increases the storage life, but it also makes storage easier and use of the fruit more versatile.
Available in forms of dry packs, which are easy and convenient to take on hikes and camping trips to purees that can be added to health juices and smoothies, the pineapple can be enjoyed throughout the year without fear of it going bad or getting damaged.