Bromelain is a natural enzyme extracted from the stem and juice of pineapple, renowned for its numerous beneficial properties. In recent years, interest in this substance has grown considerably, leading to its increasingly widespread use in various fields, not only related to nutrition but also concerning the overall well-being of the body.
Let’s discover together what bromelain is used for and what its main properties and benefits are for our body in detail.
What Is Bromelain?
Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme (meaning an enzyme capable of “digesting” proteins) found in pineapple juice and, in higher concentrations, in the stem of the pineapple, a plant belonging to the Bromeliaceae family.
The bromelain enzyme may differ slightly depending on which part of the plant it is extracted from. Compared to the bromelain obtained from the fruit, the enzyme extracted from the stem can break down other types of proteins, giving it slightly different properties.
Where Is Bromelain Found?
Bromelain is found primarily in the pineapple stem but, albeit in smaller amounts, is also present in the fruit pulp. Therefore, pineapple pulp and juice are the only foods that naturally contain this enzyme.
What Are the Properties of Bromelain?
Bromelain’s benefits for the body are numerous and widely documented, to the extent that this substance is used not only in medical settings but also in phytotherapy and herbal medicine.
Overall, the bromelain enzyme:
Acts as an effective pain reliever, as it helps reduce pain, especially if caused by sports injuries (strains, sprains, or similar issues);
Has a potent mucolytic action, acting as a decongestant (some studies have also shown a certain efficacy against sinusitis);
Is an excellent anti-inflammatory; it is therefore recommended to help counteract cellulite and alleviate the effects of various types of inflammation or edema in soft tissues;
Supports weight-loss processes, as it aids in protein digestion and stimulates diuresis, mitigating the effects of water retention.
Has a strong anticoagulant action and is used in the treatment of cardiovascular conditions.
Moreover, research has demonstrated bromelain’s beneficial effects on the thyroid; in particular, the enzyme can reduce inflammation of the gland, especially when combined with curcumin, which boosts its action.
Main Uses of Bromelain
Thanks to its many beneficial properties, bromelain can be a valuable aid in various specific situations.
In the following paragraphs, we will take a closer look at the main uses of bromelain, explaining how this enzyme can be a true ally for our health.
Digestive Action
One of the main uses of bromelain is related to supporting digestion. Thanks to its proteolytic action, this enzyme can break down dietary proteins into amino acids, thus facilitating nutrient absorption and reducing digestive disorders such as bloating and heaviness. This property makes it particularly useful for those who suffer from enzyme deficiencies or digestive difficulties, helping to naturally improve the efficiency of the digestive process.
Anti-Inflammatory Action
Another important use of bromelain is its role as a natural anti-inflammatory, effective against various inflammatory conditions. This enzyme works by reducing swelling, accelerating the reabsorption of edema, and alleviating pain caused by muscle injuries, bruises, strains, and contractures.
Bromelain’s anti-inflammatory efficacy is due to its ability to inhibit the formation of kinins, substances involved in inflammatory processes and tissue swelling. Moreover, it stimulates the production of plasmin, an enzyme that breaks down fibrin, thus preventing edema formation and speeding up recovery.
An Ally Against Water Retention
Bromelain also works as an anti-edematous and draining agent, helping to eliminate excess fluids and fighting water retention. While it does not directly lead to weight loss, this enzyme can help reduce swelling and improve the appearance of cellulite.
Benefits are particularly evident when bromelain intake is combined with a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity and a balanced diet. Thanks to its draining and anti-inflammatory properties, bromelain serves as a natural ally for achieving a more toned appearance and for reducing fluid build-up in the tissues.
Antithrombotic and Immunomodulatory Action
Beyond what has been discussed so far, bromelain also has an important antithrombotic effect, improving blood circulation and helping to lower the risk of thrombus formation in blood vessels. This effect is especially helpful in supporting cardiovascular health.
At the immune level, bromelain acts as an immunomodulator, helping to regulate and balance the body’s immune response. Thanks to this ability, it can support the body in controlling inflammatory reactions and in maintaining a more balanced, efficient immune system.
Other Applications of Bromelain
Bromelain’s application is not limited to oral intake: on a topical level, it is used for cleansing and removing necrotic tissue in cases of ulcers or burns, thanks to its keratolytic property.
Recent studies also suggest a potential antitumor effect, especially in combination with chemotherapy, where bromelain can enhance treatment effectiveness.
Contraindications of Bromelain
Bromelain is generally considered a safe substance with extremely low toxicity, but like any bioactive compound, it may have certain contraindications.
One of the main aspects to consider is bromelain’s interaction with certain medications. This enzyme can potentiate the action of certain antibiotics, such as tetracyclines and amoxicillin, by prolonging their half-life in the body. Consequently, concurrent use requires particular caution.
Furthermore, due to its anticoagulant properties, bromelain may interfere with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding. For this reason, bromelain-based supplements are not recommended for patients undergoing such pharmacological therapies or close to undergoing surgery. According to specific studies, such as the one conducted by Dr. Bahnam Guyoron and colleagues at Case Western, it is advisable to discontinue bromelain at least two weeks prior to surgery to reduce the risk of hemorrhagic complications.
Other possible side effects of bromelain involve taking high doses of the enzyme, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and, more rarely, episodes of metrorrhagia or menorrhagia. These effects are typically linked to improper use of the enzyme or to exceeding the recommended doses.
In predisposed individuals, bromelain can also trigger allergic reactions, particularly in people allergic to carrots, celery, fennel, papaya, latex, or cypress and birch pollen. Reactions can range from mild skin irritation, such as itching, rashes, and swelling, to more severe manifestations, such as difficulty breathing or a feeling of tightness in the throat.
Finally, it is worth noting that bromelain intake should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless under constant medical supervision, as there is insufficient evidence to rule out contraindications.
Recommended Daily Dosage of Bromelain
The recommended daily dosage for an adult is around 200 to 800 FIP units. Nevertheless, numerous studies confirm bromelain’s safety even when taken at higher dosages.
How to Take Bromelain
Bromelain can be taken in several ways:
by eating fresh pineapple, preferably raw to preserve its enzymes;
by drinking pineapple juice;
through specific supplements in the form of tablets or capsules.
Supplements are particularly useful for those who do not like the taste of pineapple or cannot consume enough of it to obtain the desired benefits.
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