We all know that pineapples are a delicious and tasty tropical fruit. They can be consumed fresh, cooked, juiced, or preserved. It is a popular ingredient for a wide array of cuisines. Its leaves are even used for wall paper and furnishings in the Philippines.  It has long been a popular motif in textiles, fashion and home décor throughout the world. Really, what’s not to like?

But did you know that in addition to all of this awesomeness, the pineapple possesses amazing health benefits?  Yes, it does!  It is a super fruit!  And US Family Health Plan – a TRICARE PRIME health program – wants you to know all about pineapple and the deliciously healthy benefits it offers.  Today, we want to you to meet our new best friend, Mr.  Pineapple!  

1. Pineapples actually help keep your skin flawless and firm. Pineapples are packed with Vitamin C and its pulp can be used to cure acne as well as a myriad of inflammatory skin conditions. Pineapples contain an amazing enzyme called bromelain, an anti-inflammatory enzyme. This enzyme supercharges the power of vitamin C, giving it super strength health benefits.  Not only does it increase collagen synthesis in our body, it helps you get noticeably firmer and flexible skin. You go, Mr. Pineapple!  Who doesn’t love great skin?

How to use: Apply freshly prepared pineapple juice on the face. Wash off using tepid water after 10 minutes. Feel the tingle! Or try freshly crushed pineapple wedges to exfoliate your skin and make it look healthier! This will eliminate the dead skin and accentuate blood flow.

2. Pineapples strengthen your nails and prevent hair loss. Here’s another toast to pineapple’s awesomeness! To soften and strengthen your nails, you can make lotion at home using 1 tablespoon fresh pineapple juice, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 2 drops of lemon oil. Mix these together and then put it on your nails and cuticles (Q-tips would work well, or a cotton ball, or thin makeup brush). This is a safe lotion and can be used daily. And just as Vitamin C is good for skin, Vitamin C is an important element that aids in preventing hair loss. It is a powerful antioxidant that combats free radical damage. Pineapple is a rich source of this water soluble vitamin. Eat pineapples in wedges or just juice them fresh to reap the benefits of Vitamin C and prevent hair loss and help thicken hair.
3. Pineapples reduce symptoms of arthritis. One of the most celebrated benefits of pineapple is its ability to reduce the inflammation of joints and muscles, particularly those associated with arthritis. Once again, Bromelain, contained in pineapple, comes to the rescue. It is primarily associated with breaking down complex proteins, but also has serious anti-inflammatory effects. The ingestion of bromelain has been positively associated with reducing the signs and symptoms of arthritis in many test subjects.
4. Pineapples help obliterate colds and sinus congestion. The normal immune system boosting power of vitamin C is well known, but the enzyme, Bromelain, can reduce phlegm and mucus build up in the respiratory tracts and sinus cavities. Eating pineapple along with prescribed medicines can help cure colds and coughs!
5. Pineapples help you digest food. Like most fruits, pineapples are a rich source of fiber, but they are special in that they contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. This means that eating a healthy amount of pineapples can protect you from many digestive health conditions, including constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, atherosclerosis, blood clotting, and irregular blood pressure.
6. Pineapples promote healthy gums and teeth. Along with the antioxidant compounds that protect against oral cancer, pineapples also have astringent properties, which strengthen gums and make sure that your teeth do not become loose. Astringent agents help to tighten up tissues and tone the body so things like tooth loss, hair loss, and muscle weakness or skin loosening are positively impacted by eating pineapples.
7. Pineapples help your vision. Macular Degeneration is a condition in which adults lose their vision. The beta-carotene present in pineapple can help offset this condition to improve vision.

So US Family Health Plan members – listen up!  We want you to Pineapple UP!  Not only will you enjoy the wonderful taste, you will experience the amazing health benefits as you enjoy this gem of a fruit.  We want you to be healthy, and we want to you enjoy your healthy lifestyle. Try pineapple.