See also : [[Bromelain]]
==Special Precautions of Pineapple==
*''Unripe Pineapple'' : Eating the fruit or drinking the juice of an unripe pineapple can be extremely dangerous. In fact, the Drugs.com website explains that it's quite toxic to humans, often causing excessive diarrhea and severe vomiting.
*After eating a large amount of pineapple, you might experience swelling or tenderness on the lips, inner cheeks and tongue. Typically, this reaction is caused by pineapple's meat-tenderizing properties, and it should resolve itself within a few hours. However, if the swelling is accompanied by a rash, hives or difficulty breathing, it could indicate a pineapple allergy. In this case, stop eating and seek medical attention immediately.
*Taking in too much vitamin C is generally quite safe. As a water-soluble vitamin, excess vitamin C is generally excreted through the urine. However, extremely high doses of vitamin C can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, heartburn, headaches and insomnia. Taking in too much of the fruit's bromelain can result in skin rash, vomiting, diarrhea and excessive menstrual bleeding. Large doses of the enzyme could also stimulate uterine contractions, potentially leading to miscarriages in pregnant women.
Interactions
*The bromelain in pineapple could potentially interact with certain medications. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consulting your physician before eating pineapple or taking bromelain supplements if you are currently taking antibiotics, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, blood thinners, insomnia drugs and tricyclic antidepressants. Alcohol and certain herbs, such as valerian root or kava, might also interact with bromelain.
==The benefits of Pineapple are==
Pineapples have long had a tradition for their healing qualities among the natives of Central and South America. Bromelain is a powerful proteolytic enzyme from the juice and stems of pineapples. It is very helpful for aiding the digestive processes. It has also shown very powerful anti-inflammatory properties that have caught the attention of nutritional researchers.