Pineapple
It is a sweet juicy fruit native to South America. They are grown from March to June but can be found all year around. It is consumed in a variety of ways but raw pineapple is the most nutritious as it is rich in magnesium and vitamin C.
Nutrition
- Provide three-quarters of the manganese needed for one day.
- Good source of folates, thiamin, biotin, pyridoxine, riboflavin, and minerals.
Health Benefits
- Good source of Vitamin C
- Helps in building strong immune system support
- Highly recommended for indigestion
- Helps in dealing with arthritis inflammation
- keeps your eyes bright and healthy
Purchase Guide
- Although the season for pineapple runs from March through June, they are available year-round in local markets.
- Look for pineapples that are heavy for their size. While larger pineapples will have a greater proportion of edible flesh, there is usually no difference in quality between a small and large size pineapple.
- Pineapples should be free of soft spots, bruises and darkened "eyes," all of which may indicate that the pineapple is past its prime. Pineapple stops ripening as soon as it is picked, so choose fruit with a fragrant sweet smell at the stem end. Avoid pineapple that smells musty, sour or fermented.
Storage
- Pineapple can be left at room temperature for one or two days before serving. While this process will not make the fruit any sweeter, it will help it to become softer and more juicy. Yet, as they are very perishable, you should still watch them closely during this period to ensure that they do not spoil.
- After two days, if you are still not ready to consume the pineapple, you should wrap it in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator where it will keep for a maximum of three to five days.
- Pineapple that has been cut up should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Mango Pineapple Smoothie
Pineapples contain a good level of several B vitamins which propel your brain to function better and boost your ability to deal with stress efficiently. Manganese, which is abundant in pineapples, is a key co-factor boosting the creation of enzymes that a responsible for production of energy within your body.
Papaya Pineapple Smoothie Recipe
Pineapple is full of amino acid tryptophan that your body uses to produce serotonin - the “happy hormone”. Getting enough amino acid, along with other nutrients like vitamin B is essential to keep your neurological system up and running smoothly - for enough energy and positive mood hormones. Papaya is good for all yours digestive problems too.
Pineapple Smoothie Recipe
Pineapples are a storehouse of several health benefits due to their nutrients. They contain bromelain, protein, carbohydrates, sugar, and soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. The vitamins in these fruits include vitamin A, vitamin C, beta-carotene, thiamin, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6, and folate. Minerals like potassium, copper, manganese, calcium, sodium, and magnesium are also found in pineapples. These tropical fruits are low in calories and are, therefore, a major part of weight loss diets.