A Pineapple a Day Keeps the Worms Away

Once upon a time, I was nine years old and my aunt was babysitting me for the day. At lunch time, she gave me a few pineapple slices and put the rest in the fridge.

After lunch, she went about her merry way doing whatever it was she needed to get done that day, and I stayed in the kitchen and had a little bit more pineapple.

And then I had a little more.

And then some more.

And then? MORE PINEAPPLE.

A few hours later when my aunt returned to the kitchen to eat some pineapple, it was all gone.

Her eyes filled with shock. I would have apologized, but speaking was slightly painful as it felt like someone had scraped off the top layer of my tongue. And also, I wasn't sorry.

I know I should have been. It's rather rude to be a guest in someone's house and eat all their pineapple before they've even had a bite. But seriously, she should have known better than to leave me alone with pineapple. (Other foods I shouldn't be left alone with include, bananas, bacon, and avocado.)

At nine years old, I had no idea of all the amazing health benefits of pineapple (and like I would have cared if you'd told me). I just knew it tasted good, I liked it A LOT, and so I ate it. All of it, apparently.

I'm sure you've heard people say (or may have even said it yourself), "If something tastes good, it's gotta be bad for you." And often, they are right.

The great news for pineapple lovers is that, when it comes to pineapples, that statement is wrong!

Did you know that...

Pineapples are full of vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, phosphorous and calcium.

Pineapples have anti-oxidants which fight free radicals, those evil things that attack and damage our cells. And, keeping free radicals away with the help of rich anti-oxidants found in pineapple can help lower cholesterol.

Pineapples have anti-inflammatory properties which can help with arthritis and other ailments caused by inflammation.

The main enzyme in pineapples, Bromelain, helps aid digestion. I've definitely noticed the benefits of this. If I feel too full or bloated after a meal, I have a few pieces of pineapple and wait for it to do its magic.

Speaking of Bromelain, it is known to relieve or stop coughs all together because it helps break up mucus. So, send your sweetie to the store for some pineapple when you are sick!

Enzymes in pineapple can help fight stomach worms.

 Sorry, buddy, but you gotta GO!

Pineapple can help prevent nausea. It is believed that the best way to do this is to drink pineapple juice rather than eat the pineapple. Just make sure you aren't getting canned  or bottled juice that consists mainly of sweeteners and  other additives. Juice that pineapple at home!

Isn't it amazing that something that tastes so good and can be so good for you and have so many healing properties?

I sure think so!


***A note about the title: I have no idea how many pineapples it actually takes to rid oneself of worms. As with any ailment or issue, please consult your doctor. And if they won't take your pain/discomfort seriously, find one who does!