What is bromelain used for and how does it work against cellulite?
Cellulite is a skin condition that affects many people—regardless of age or body type. It results from a combination of factors, including water retention, connective tissue changes, and impaired blood circulation. There are several effective methods and substances to prevent and reduce cellulite, and one of them is bromelain.
Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from pineapple. In addition to promoting protein digestion, it has shown beneficial effects on fluid drainage and microcirculation—two key aspects in managing cellulite.
Let’s take a closer look at the connection between bromelain and cellulite, examining how it works and how to use it effectively for long-lasting results.
What causes cellulite?
Cellulite is a localized accumulation of fat that, according to the Italian National Institute of Health, affects “80–85% of women in the Western world between puberty and full adulthood.”
Although recent scientific publications emphasize that cellulite is not a disease but rather a phenomenon with various physiological foundations, its causes can be worsened or prolonged by several factors.
One of the main causes is genetic and hormonal predisposition. Estrogen, in particular, promotes water retention and fat storage in areas commonly affected by cellulite, such as the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen.
When this is combined with a sedentary lifestyle, a diet high in sugars and fats, and poor hydration, the problem tends to worsen.
Another key element is impaired blood and lymphatic circulation. When microcirculation doesn’t work properly, fat cells accumulate irregularly, and fluids stagnate in the tissues, making the skin less firm and more uneven.
This phenomenon is especially noticeable in people who spend many hours sitting, such as in front of a computer, without moving or drinking enough water.
The combination of these factors makes cellulite difficult to eliminate—but certainly not impossible to improve.
How does bromelain act on cellulite?
Bromelain is a natural enzyme extracted from pineapple, known for its anti-inflammatory, draining, and digestive properties. Thanks to these effects, it can be a valuable aid in fighting cellulite by addressing several of the main contributing factors: inflammation, water retention, and microcirculation issues.
Anti-inflammatory action and effect on microcirculation
One of bromelain’s most important effects is its ability to reduce tissue inflammation. It limits the production of kinins—substances responsible for swelling and inflammation—and stimulates plasmin, an enzyme that breaks down fibrin and helps prevent the formation of edema. This mechanism promotes the reabsorption of excess fluids, reduces swelling, and improves skin firmness.
In addition, bromelain positively affects microcirculation by improving blood and lymphatic flow. An efficient circulatory system allows tissues to oxygenate better and eliminate metabolic waste more effectively—two crucial factors in reducing fat buildup and cellulite formation.
Ally against water retention
Besides its anti-inflammatory action, bromelain is an effective anti-edematous and draining agent that helps combat water retention. This enzyme reduces fluid stagnation in tissues, one of the main causes of the “orange peel” appearance.
Although bromelain does not act directly on weight loss, its draining effect helps deflate critical areas and therefore improves skin tone.
How to enhance bromelain’s effects on cellulite
The benefits of bromelain are even more evident when taken as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes good hydration, physical activity, and a balanced diet. In this way, it becomes a natural ally for firmer, smoother skin and a visible reduction in cellulite.
Changing your lifestyle
Lifestyle plays a crucial role in preventing and reducing cellulite. Managing stress, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can make a significant difference in skin and body health.
Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are essential: reducing salt, drinking plenty of water, and eating bromelain-rich foods like pineapple can help drain excess fluids and counteract fat accumulation.
Posture is also important: avoid standing for too long or crossing your legs, which can impede circulation. Also, be mindful of your clothing—tight shoes or high heels can impair microcirculation and promote water retention.
Anti-cellulite treatments with devices
Some of the most effective ways to combat cellulite involve using specific devices designed to stimulate lymphatic circulation and improve fluid drainage. These tools act deeply on the skin, aiding in the elimination of toxins and reducing the “orange peel” effect.
For home use, there are electric massagers with infrared technology or textured surfaces designed to work on subcutaneous tissue. These devices are applied to target areas—such as buttocks, hips, and thighs—in circular motions to improve blood and lymph flow. However, the results may be slower and more limited than professional treatments.
For a more targeted and effective approach, specialized clinics offer advanced treatments such as ultrasonographic lipocavitation, which uses ultrasound to break down fat cells for easier elimination, or pressotherapy, a method that involves applying an inflatable suit that exerts controlled pressure on the legs, arms, and abdomen to improve lymphatic circulation and drain excess fluids.
Medications, supplements, and massages
Currently, there is no scientific evidence proving the effectiveness of any product—whether taken orally or applied topically—in definitively eliminating cellulite.
That said, lymphatic drainage massages are certainly beneficial for the body because they improve lymph flow, offering temporary relief. A better lymphatic system can help combat cellulite and improve its typical appearance.
Can bromelain supplements help reduce cellulite?
Bromelain-based supplements can be a valuable aid in the fight against cellulite, thanks to their anti-inflammatory, draining, and circulation-enhancing properties.
They are especially useful for people who do not like the taste of pineapple or are unable to consume enough of it to get the desired benefits.
At RedMoringa, we’ve developed an exclusive anti-cellulite draining supplement designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite and combat fluid retention: Bromelain 5000 GDU, Pineapple, and Moringa.
Our formula—unique in Italy—combines Bromelain 5000 GDU with Moringa, one of the most antioxidant-rich plants in the world, along with a selection of plant extracts such as birch, yarrow, and goldenrod, known for their diuretic and draining properties. These ingredients work synergistically to reduce cellulite, improve circulation, and promote the elimination of excess fluids.