The health benefits of pineapple from our series on the Health Benefits of Caribbean Food

Sweet, juicy pineapple is both delicious and nutritious. Loaded with vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties, this prickly fruit helps you ward off infections and feel your best. Enjoy this versatile fruit alone, in salsas, salads, cakes, and pies, baked with ham, and grilled with meats. Keep reading to learn about the many health benefits of pineapple.

1. Pineapple improves joint and muscle pain

Pineapples contain bromelain which is a natural anti-inflammatory enzyme. Eating pineapple improves symptoms for those with arthritis and injury related joint and muscle pain.

2. It wards off colds and flu

Pineapples are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is important for the immune system. Numerous studies have shown that those who consume high levels of Vitamin C come down with less cold and flu viruses, so eating pineapple just might keep you from catching the next bug.

3. It clears sinus and chest congestion

Bromelain in pineapple breaks up mucus and has anti-inflammatory effects. For those with cold, flu, or allergies eating pineapple is a good way to ease congestion.

4. It improves circulation

Pineapple contains potassium which is a vasodilator. This means eating pineapple can help reduce blood pressure and prevent heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis.

5. It promotes tissue and cellular health

The body needs vitamin C to make collagen, which is the basic protein of skin, organs, bones, and veins. Eating vitamin C rich pineapple improves collagen production, helping to improve overall health and to speed up wound healing. Pineapple also contains manganese, which keeps bones strong.

6. It fights cancer

Pineapples are rich in vitamin A, beta carotene, bromelain, different flavonoid mixes, and large amounts of manganese, which all have anti-cancer and anti-tumor effects. Pineapple has specifically been identified with preventing and improving treatment of cancers of the mouth, throat, and breast.

7. It improves digestion

Rich in soluble and insoluble fiber, Pineapple helps keep the digestive system regular and helps to relieve and prevent bloating and constipation.

Disclaimer: We are not doctors or health professionals. We just like to research helpful information. 🙂 Please consult with your physician before making any changes to your health or diet regimen.

Whether you’re from the Caribbean and want to have a taste of home this holiday season, or you simply have a love of tropical foods and want to include them in your holiday menu, these delicious Caribbean holiday desserts are sure to satisfy. This list of carefully selected traditional recipes includes cakes, puddings, dessert bread, and even ice cream. When it’s time to eat, just remember to save some room for dessert 😉

1. Tembleque (Puerto Rican Coconut Pudding)

Tembleque is a sweet and mild coconut dessert from Puerto Rico resembling pudding or gelatin. The name literally translates to “jiggle” and when you try it you’ll see why! This delicious dessert only requires a handful of ingredients and about 5 minutes of active cooking time. Try this authentic tembleque recipe.

2. Grenadian Nutmeg Ice Cream

Flavorful and delightfully aromatic nutmeg is showcased in velvety nutmeg ice cream from the “spice isle”, Grenada. For the best flavor, use freshly ground nutmeg. Try this simple nutmeg ice cream recipe, no ice cream machine required.

3. Cake de Ron (Cuban Rum Cake)

Cuba’s version of rum cake, cake de ron, is different from other rum cakes commonly made throughout the Caribbean. You won’t find any rum-soaked fruits in this super moist Bundt cake, but with lemon zest, banana liquor, and of course plenty of nice dark rum, the flavors are complex and delicious. Try this traditional cake de ron recipe.

4. Jamaican Black Cake (Christmas Fruit Cake)

Jamaican black cake, or christmas pudding, is a spiced cake made with a combination of raisins, cherries, prunes, and other fruits. This classic holiday dessert has endless variations, and surely no two households make it exactly the same way. Most recipes call for soaking the dried fruits in wine and/or rum for up to a year before baking. Try this classic Jamaican black cake recipe.