By Karla Sullivan
Chronic pain – as a result of arthritis and fibromyalgia – is not something that should be put aside nor masked with the use of over-the-counter drugs.
Like stress, chronic pain can develop into more severe health problems that could also raise one’s life and health insurance premiums.
But, establishing a healthy diet, that contains the health benefits of certain fruits and vegetables, can naturally ease the pain and slow the progression of some illnesses.
Bromelain, which is found at the stem and core of the pineapple, was initially discovered to improve the digestive functionality in the intestinal tract. However, in light to recent studies, bromelain also shows signs of additional health benefits.
For example, the Arthritis Foundation stated that bromelain produces the same health benefits as anti-inflammatory drug – such as Tylenol and ibuprofen – that are used to relieve joint pain.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, pineapples have been used for centuries in Central and South America to treat indigestion and reduce inflammation. Bromelain, once isolated from the rest of the plant, can be used to treat a number of health conditions – such as sinusitis.
Studies suggest that when applied to skin it may be helpful in improving the healing of burns. In fact, early studies indicate that bromelain may reduce pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Ten recent studies have been identified that have assessed bromelain in osteoarthritis of the knee.
One of the earliest studies that investigated the health benefits of bromelain was a series of cases reports on 28 patients who had moderate to severe rheumatoid or osteoarthritis.
Theses studies indicated that the use of bromelain was consumed at varying doses (these doses were relatively low as compared to subsequent studies) and differing duration, had positive clinical effects in 18 patients (as measured by assessment of reduction in soft tissue swelling, pain and/or joint stiffness) and no adverse events associated with the medication were reported in any of these case reports.
Therefore, this data provided a plausible basis for the further assessment of bromelain in musculoskeletal disorders, according to the US National Library of Medicine.
Bromelain is available in tablet or capsule form but does have side effects that can interact with other medications, so it is important to check with your healthcare provider concerning this supplement.
Pineapple contains high levels of vitamin C, manganese, copper, B1 and B6, fiber, folate as well as pantothenic acid and some suggest that pineapples can protect against macular degeneration.
Fresh pineapples are recommended and popular from March through June; the closest to the stem and core, the better. Canned pineapples and juice will not have the same health benefits nor the same blast of nutrients.
Recipe suggestions:
· Pineapple chunks added to your morning yogurt
· Fresh pineapples served in salads
· Grilled pineapple with dinner
· Fresh pineapples served on French vanilla ice cream for an evening snack
· Fresh pineapple juice consumed before meals to provide the best nutritional advantage
