Pineapple Core Nutrition

Pineapple Core Nutrition
Photo Credit slice of pineapple image by PaulPaladin from Fotolia.com

The pineapple was first discovered by Christopher Columbus. The fruit was named pineapple because pina means small in Spanish and apple in English because of the round shape. Pineapples are a most enjoyed tropical fruit due to a juicy taste and sweet aroma. Although the flesh of the pineapple is the part most commonly consumed, the core of the pineapple is also eaten and contains valuable vitamins and nutrients.

Pineapple Core Removal

Removing the green stem from the top of the pineapple is the first step to finding the core. Slicing the brown peel around the entire pineapple is the next step. Slice the whole pineapple into four equal rounds, and look at each section for a circular, small woody center. That's the pineapple core. It's edible, but tougher than the flesh that surrounds it. You can remove the core with an apple corer or a sharp knife.

Calories and Fiber

One hundred grams of fresh pineapple provides 86 calories, according to Organic Facts. Fresh pineapple would be considered a high-fiber food. Fiber in the diet is important for a healthy digestive and immune system.

Bromelain

The naturally occurring bromelain is a protein enzyme located in the stem, brown peel, flesh and core of the pineapple. There have been numerous university and government studies regarding the health benefits and quantity needed of bromelain to reduce pain and inflammation. According to one study at The Louisiana State University, when the bromelain content in the pineapple core was measured, researchers found that the core has an even higher level of bromelain than the fruit peel.

Vitamins and Minerals

Pinapple is a rich source of vitamin C, which supports immunity. Additionally, pineapple is an excellent source of manganese, which helps with proper bone formation, and copper The pineapple core is as nutritious as the pineapple flesh, providing numerous essential nutrients.

References

Article reviewed by Gina Skurchak Last updated on: Apr 26, 2011

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