Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is here!  It begins in March and remains through June.  If you love pineapple (and who doesn’t), then now is the time to hit the produce department to purchase this juicy and delicious fruit.  I know taste is reason enough to eat this fruit, but I want to give you healthy reasons for choosing the fruit.

Pineapple contains the proteolytic enzymes pancreatin and bromelain.  They help reduce levels of circulating immune complexes (CICs) in the body.  CICs are elevated in individuals with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Pineapple is also abundant in vitamin C.  Vitamin C is an antioxidant that reduces the risk of cancer and supports the immune system. 

Purchasing tip:  choose pineapples that smell sweet at the stem end.  Also avoid bruised pineapples.  Once purchased, cut it within two days.  You can store the freshly sliced pineapple for up to one week in the refrigerator without losing any nutrients.  

Dr Phelts educates his patients about which foods to eat for their best health at his midtown Manhattan office.  Give us a call at 212-286-2012 to learn about how we can help you and your family can adopt a healthy lifestyle.

REFERENCES:
WorldsHealthiestFoods.com "Pineapple" http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=34

"Tropical fruits see strong demand." The Packer (posted April 2014) https://www.thepacker.com/article/tropical-fruits-see-strong-demand
EverydayHealth.com "8 Anti-inflammation Foods for Mutltiple Sclerosis." Post written by Mikel Theobald; Medical Review by Niya Jones, MD. Accessed 15 Jan 2018: https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/living-well-with-multiple-sclerosis/anti-inflammatory-foods-for-multiple-sclerosis-pictures/