Pineapple history The historical homeland of pineapple is considered to be Brazil. Most researchers assume that this fruit appeared around t...
Pineapple history
The historical homeland of pineapple is considered to be Brazil. Most researchers assume that this fruit appeared around the 12-15th centuries. The inhabitants of the Caribbean prepared medicinal products and wine from it and made fabric from the leaves.
Pineapple came to Europe thanks to the Portuguese traveler Christopher Columbus. In 1493, he wrote that pineapple looks like a pine cone, and its taste is simply incredible.
In Russia, this fruit appeared only in the 18th century. Our ancestors perceived it as a vegetable and prepared pickles from it, stewed it, boiled cabbage soup, and used it as a side dish. The first pineapple on the territory of our state was grown under Catherine II, and it cost like a whole cow! But due to the harsh climate, this culture simply did not take root.
Today, the largest pineapple plantations in the world are located in the Hawaiian Islands. The main suppliers of this tropical fruit are Thailand, the Philippines, Brazil, Mexico.
The benefits of pineapple
Pineapples have long ceased to be an outlandish fruit for us, and now in supermarkets, you can buy fresh, canned, dried in the form of chips and in the form of candied fruits. Of all the variety of options, I still recommend giving preference to fresh pineapples, since it is in them that all the benefits are concentrated. First, the product is low in calories. There is only 52 kcal in 100 grams of fruit. Secondly, it contains valuable vitamins - almost the entire group of B vitamins and vitamin C in large quantities. Thirdly, it has a low glycemic index, that is, it does not give sharp jumps in blood sugar and insulin. This means that pineapple can be consumed by people with diabetes and overweight without harm to health.
And the most important property of pineapple is the content of bromelain, an enzyme that promotes the breakdown of protein. This is very important for those who suffer from low acidity of the stomach, indigestion. Bromelain also has immunostimulating, anti-inflammatory properties. Several years ago, bromelain preparations were actively promoted as fat-burning agents, hence the myth that pineapple helps to lose weight. Unfortunately, magic pills for a thin waist have not yet been invented, and pineapple will contribute to weight loss only with a balanced diet with a slight calorie deficit and sufficient physical activity, says nutritionist, endocrinologist Raushaniya Khismatullina.
In addition to its excellent taste, pineapple contains many useful vitamins of groups A, B, C, PP, and macronutrients (potassium, calcium, manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, iron), which have a positive effect on human well-being.
Pineapple is recommended for people with poor digestion because it contains a useful enzyme - bromelain, which helps food digest better. In addition to breaking down food, this enzyme has an anti-inflammatory effect, helps relieve swelling, and prevents blood clots.
This tropical fruit is rich in fiber, which improves intestinal motility and helps relieve constipation.
Pineapple contains a large amount of vitamin C, which is relevant during seasonal colds. This fruit also contains substances that strengthen the central nervous system, help cope with bad moods and reduce joint and muscle pain after intense exertion.
Eating pineapple cleanses blood vessels of bad cholesterol and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is believed that this product prevents the growth of cancer cells and reduces the risk of cancer.
Doctors recommend eating no more than 200 grams of pineapple per day to maintain health and strengthen immunity.
Pineapple harm
Due to the high content of fruit acids, pineapple is extremely contraindicated for people with gastritis, high acidity, and stomach ulcers. It is advisable for pregnant women to exclude pineapple from their diet, as its fruits can lead to miscarriage.
When eating pineapple, it is advisable not to exceed the recommended rate, because it can irritate the oral mucosa and lead to sores.
Do not eat pineapples if you have a tendency to allergies. Children under 6 years of age are highly discouraged from using them.
Application in medicine
Pineapple contains a large amount of vitamin C. It is enough for a person to eat 200 grams of pineapple to stock up on the daily requirement of ascorbic acid. B vitamins (B1, B2, B6) help to normalize metabolism, improve bowel function, and also promote the absorption of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Vitamin A is an excellent antioxidant that removes free radicals from the body.
Pineapple juice has a beneficial effect on human memory. It is recommended for active mental stress. Regular consumption of juice in the diet cleanses the blood vessels and prevents strokes and heart attacks.
In South America, pineapple is used to treat colds, intestinal infections, hemorrhoids, and fevers.Cooking applications
Pineapple is very popular in the kitchen, especially in Asia and South America. Desserts are prepared from this fruit, its pulp is added to salads, stewed, canned, freshly squeezed juices and smoothies are made, and, of course, they are used for a beautiful and unusual presentation. This fruit goes well with poultry, meat, rice, vegetables, fruits, and seafood.
Chicken breast salad with pineapple
This light and tasty salad will make a great dinner option. The sweetness of pineapple, combined with garlic and breast, will give you an unforgettable taste.
- Chicken breast - 200 gr
- Pineapple (fresh) - 200 gr
- Parmesan - 70 gr
- Garlic - 2 cloves
- Mayonnaise (homemade) - 2 tablespoons
- Salt, black pepper - to taste
Pineapple smoothie
Many nutritionists recommend including smoothies in your diet because they are rich in nutrients, and of course fiber. This cocktail will charge you with energy and a good mood.
- Fresh pineapple - 200 gr
- Banana - 1 piece
- Spinach - 30 gr
- Water - 300 ml.
How to choose and store pineapple
Pineapple is a very tasty and healthy product, but in order for it to benefit the body, it is very important to choose and store it correctly.
When buying fruit, pay attention to the smell. It should be light, moderately sweet, and heard at arm's length. The pineapple skin should be whole, firm, and free from dents. When pressed, it should be elastic, but not hard. The leaves should be thick and green, and the bottom of the pineapple should be dry and mildew-free.
A whole pineapple is best kept at room temperature, otherwise, it will lose its rich flavor in the refrigerator. If the product has already been cut, its shelf life is a maximum of 3 days. The fruit should be wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerated. Keep this fruit away from other foods as it tends to absorb odors.
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