What's Poppin' Pineapple?

Where I reside in North Carolina, I discovered fresh pineapple is cheaper to purchase—and is a gorgeous addition to my flowerbed.

Growing up, my family and I ate more canned fruit than fresh fruit, because it was cheaper and stretched longer with a family of five (at times). From pineapple-glazed ham steaks at Sunday brunch and Thanksgiving centerpieces, I remember always wanting to drink the unwanted pineapple juice.

As my cooking and baking skills grew with experience, I appreciate the fresh tropical fruit more than any canned fruit I ate growing up as a child. Fresh pineapple has more beneficial factors than canned, though it doesn't affect its cultural history.

Pineapple is a tropical fruit originating from South America. The superfood is a member of the Bromeliad family, a fruit of many individual berries (or flower) that grow together around the central core. Pineapples played a major role in traditional medicine influencing infused beverages today.

Let's take a closer look at pineapple's health benefits:

1. Pineapple is PACKED with antioxidants.

Eat pineapple any time of the day—The antioxidants found in pineapple help fight oxidative stress causing cell damage. The progression of cancers is due to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

Pineapple is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acid. Like many fruits, pineapple is packed with antioxidants that can help you "karate kick" many ailments.

The vitamin C found in pineapple is great for body growth and development and aids the absorption of iron from your diet.

Bromelain found in pineapple can boost immunity and reduce inflammation. This antioxidant has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of the antioxidants may minimize inflammation, swelling, bruising, and pain.

A study showed manganese may prevent osteoporosis in post-menopausal women.

A bromelain enzyme supplement can relieve pain as effective as arthritis medicines like dicolofenac.

According to Healthline, studies suggested children who consumed pineapple had a lower risk of bacterial infections like the common cold. The study further proved children who consumed pineapple (or bromelain enzyme supplements) had four times more disease-fighting white cells. Additionally, children who consumed pineapple while experiencing sinus infections recovered sooner.

2. Pineapple is good for digestive health.

As a busy entrepreneur, I don't have a lot of time to sit down and eat a wholesome meal. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but midday snacks are just as essential. When I don't allow myself time for well-balanced meals, I'll need a probiotic to help regulate my digestive health.

Who would've thought pineapple is a tasty alternative to promote digestive health?

Pineapple contains a group of digestive enzymes called bromelain. Bromelain breaks down protein molecules into building elements, like amino acids and small peptides, which absorb easily in the small intestines.

Pineapple contains dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is essential for regular bowel movements and healthy intestines.

3. Pineapple can reduce the risk of cancers and diseases.

It doesn't shock me that the tropical fruit reduces the risk of cancers and diseases. Pineapple is packed with amazing antioxidants and enzymes, like bromelain, making it beneficial to enjoy.

Studies show that compounds found in pineapple can reduce the risks of cancers (and diseases). Test tube studies also showed that bromelain can help fight cancer.

Manganese found in pineapples can reduce the risk of macular degeneration, a disease that affects the eyes.

Serve it up!

Whether you're a lover of fresh pineapple for a midday snack or a "master grill chef" that loves it grilled, there are many ways to dress it!

Add a flare to your fruit salad with grilled pineapple, with Stella Bistro Foods Caribbean Jerk and Marinade Rub Sultry Spice. The two sultry spices together have an authentic touch that will melt on your tastebuds.

Add a few dashes of Stella Bistro Foods Rustic Italian Sultry Spice with your ham and pineapple toppings on your pizza. The Mediterranean leaves add an Italian finish that sends your tastebuds on a first-class trip to Italy.

On the go? Add frozen pineapple to your fruit and yogurt of choice, with a few dashes of Stella Bistro Foods Autumn Flair Sultry Spice. Grab a straw and enjoy!

When I have to make my early morning class, I packed Stella Bistro Foods Breakfast Starters in Tropical Morning Hot Cereal. I can pop the hot cereal in the microwave for three minutes or so and viola - the air is lightly scented with harvest spices and tropical notes of pineapples and mangoes. I like to sweeten mine with honey or maple syrup and enjoy it before my afternoon classes.

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