Bromelain: For Allergies, Surgical Recovery, & Cancer

Move over, vitamin C, there’s another powerhouse in pineapple that’s stealing the spotlight: bromelain.

From fighting inflammation to helping with digestion and even showing promise in cancer prevention and treatment, bromelain is an underrated health hero.

What is Bromelain?

Bromelain is a group of enzymes found in pineapples (Ananas comosus, for the science geeks out there). It’s mainly extracted from the core, though the fruit contains some as well. Used for centuries as a natural remedy, modern research is confirming that bromelain has some serious health perks.

The Benefits of Bromelain

Why should you consider adding bromelain to your wellness routine? Let’s dive in:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse – Bromelain helps reduce inflammation, making it great for arthritis, sinusitis, and post-surgery swelling.

   
   

2. Helps Treat Digestive Disorders (IBS, Ulcerative colitis, Crohns, heartburn, etc.) – It breaks down proteins, easing digestion.

   
   

3. Immune System Booster – Studies suggest it can help your immune system fight off infections.

   
   

4. Pain Relief – It works as a natural pain killer, similar to NSAIDs like ibuprofen, without the nasty side effects.

   
   

5. Speeds Surgical Recovery & Wound Healing – Speeds up healing and tissue repair.

   
   

6. Treats Allergies and Asthma – targets the underlying cause of asthma and allergies, which is a hypersensitive immune response, by modulating the entire immune system.

   
   

7. Decreases Joint Pain – Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it great for arthritis, osteoporosis, etc.

   
   

8. Cardiovascular Support – May reduce blood clot formation and improve circulation.

   
   

9. Cancer Prevention and Treatment – Now, this is where things get really interesting…

Bromelain and Cancer: What the Science Says

Bromelain is widely recognized for its natural anti-cancer effects, as it promotes apoptotic cell death, prevents tumor growth, and inhibits metastasis.

Here’s what the research says:

• Kills Cancer Cells: A 2021 study found that bromelain induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells (NIH).

• Enhances Chemotherapy: Research suggests bromelain can make chemotherapy more effective by increasing drug absorption and targeting cancer cells.

• Reduces Tumor Growth: A study published in the International Journal of Oncology found that bromelain reduced the size of tumors in mice.

• Boosts the Immune System Against Cancer: It’s been shown to activate immune cells that attack tumors (NIH).

This is exciting stuff, but always consult with a healthcare provider before using bromelain as part of a cancer treatment plan.

Risks & Side Effects: Who Should Be Cautious?

While bromelain is generally safe, there are some people who should be careful:

• If you’re on blood thinners – Bromelain can increase the risk of bleeding (NIH).

• If you have a pineapple allergy – Kind of obvious, but important.

• If you’re pregnant or nursing – There’s limited research on safety.

• If you’re about to have surgery – While Bromelain is part of many pre and post-surgical protocols, it can affect blood clotting, therefore, always follow your doctor’s specific instructions and consider consulting a qualified Naturopathic Doctor.

  
  

Where to Get Bromelain & How to Take It

1. Pineapple Core

• Bromelain is found in all parts of the pineapple but is most concentrated in the core.

• The riper the fruit is, the softer the core will be.

• Juice the core of the pineapple or toss it into a smoothie to get your daily dose.

  
  

2. Bromelain Supplements

• Capsules & Tablets – Found in health food stores and online.

• Powder Form – Can be mixed into smoothies.

• Combination Supplements – Often combined with quercetin for an extra anti-inflammatory kick.

That’s a Wrap

If you’re looking for a natural way to fight inflammation, support digestion, and even boost cancer prevention efforts, bromelain is definitely worth considering.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health (NIH.gov)

• Gary Brecka

• Dr. Peter Attia

• Dr. Mercola

• Dr. Josh Axe

• International Journal of Oncology

• PubMed Studies on Bromelain