The all-seeing "eyes" of the pineapple are created by individual flowers that huddle tightly guarding a single central core. The eyes closer to the base conceal the sweetest and juiciest area of the pineapple, though the many health benefits of the fruit can be found everywhere. Pineapple is high in antioxidants and contains a troop of vitamins and minerals that aid in digestion, immunity and the functionality of almost all body systems. Try reaping the many benefits of pineapple by blending or juicing fresh pineapple with 8 oz. of water for a sweet health explosion.
Vitamin B-1
Also called thiamine, this B-complex energy vitamin helps the body metabolize fats and protein and is necessary for complete digestion, nervous system and brain functions. According to the National Institutes of Health, depletion of thiamine can occur after just 14 days due to a lack of storage centers in the body. The pineapple enzyme bromelain aids thiamine by helping to digest proteins associated with stomach upset and heartburn. According to the World's Healthiest Foods (WHF), one cup of fresh pineapple provides 10 percent of the suggested daily value for vitamin B-1.
Vitamin C
The body's storage of the free radicals associated with cancer, heart disease and arthritis may be found in those deficient in vitamin C, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Along with the antioxidants of vitamin C, bromelain has been found by researchers to ignite immune system stimulation by enhancing the protective nature of white blood cells. According to the WHF, one cup of fresh pineapple offers 40 percent of the suggested daily value for vitamin C.
Manganese
Low levels of manganese are needed by the body for skeletal development, metabolizing carbohydrates, amino acids and cholesterol and the production of collagen. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, neurological impairments can occur when manganese is taken too generously or inhaled directly from environmental or occupational sources. For this reason, manganese intake by newborns, children and people with chronic liver disease or iron deficiencies should be monitored regularly. The WHF states that 1/2 cup of fresh pineapple offers 64 percent of manganese's suggested daily value.
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