The Benefits of Drinking Pineapple Juice

There’s nothing like a cold drink on a hot summer’s day. When the thermometer goes up, summer drinks can help regulate our body temperature, support our brain function and mood, keep our digestion running smoothly, and keep our joints lubricated while enjoying outdoor sports. But they need to be the right summer drinks – and soda doesn’t make the list. Apart from the caffeine present in many popular soda flavors (which acts as a diuretic, actually contributing to dehydration), the sugar and sodium don’t do your hydration levels any favors, either. Soda has no nutritional value whatsoever, and it could cause you to drink less water (which is much better for you).

Plain water may seem dull to drink for many, but pure fruit juice, when consumed in moderation, can substitute as a healthy alternative. Health experts generally recommend eating a serving of whole fruit over drinking a serving of fruit juice, as the whole fruit is usually lower in calories, higher in nutrients, and contains healthy dietary fiber. But if you’re in the mood for a cold drink, in a hurry, or want to take an easy-to-consume snack on the go, fruit juice can be a lifesaver – and few fruit juices are better than pineapple juice.

Pineapple Facts & Benefits of Pineapples

Long a symbol of hospitality and well-being, pineapples are rich in vitamins and minerals. A one-cup serving of pineapple provides you with more than a day’s worth of vitamin C and is a rich source of thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B-6, potassium, beta-carotene, and other antioxidants. Pineapple is also the only major dietary source of bromelain, an enzyme that has been used to treat inflammation and may help ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis. While pineapple is higher in natural sugars and carbs than other fruits, when eaten in moderation it can be both a healthy addition to your diet and a great benefit to almost any weight loss plan (the more so because its sweet taste is very satisfying).

Pineapple juice contains a concentrated amount of many of the whole fruit’s nutrients in a single serving, while its naturally sweet flavor precludes the need to add sugar.

Nutrients Found in Pineapple Juice

A one-cup serving of pineapple juice is a good source of:

• Vitamin C (100% RDI)
• Manganese (55% RDI)
• Copper (19% RDI)
• Vitamin B6 (15% RDI)
• Thiamine (12% RDI)
•  (11% RDI)
• Potassium (7% RDI)
• Magnesium (7% RDI)

Pineapple juice is also rich in copper, beta-carotene and vitamin A. These antioxidants promote healthy skin, help heal wounds, and may reduce skin damage from pollution and aging.

Health Benefits of Pineapple Juice

Some ways in which adding pineapple juice to your diet may benefit your health include:

• A stronger immune system. Like many fruits, pineapple juice has a range of vitamins and minerals that can boost your immunity, including vitamin C. Pineapple juice also contains enzymes that have been shown to promote immunity.
• Reduced inflammation. As stated above, pineapple juice contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce pain and swelling from sports injuries and osteoarthritis.
• Reduced risk of heart disease. Studies also suggest that bromelain may break down blood clots and cholesterol deposits in your arteries.
• Relief from cold and allergy symptoms. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, bromelain has been shown to thin congestion-causing mucus in the lungs and sinuses.
• Better vision. Foods with high levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants may reduce the risk of macular degeneration, which causes cataracts and other vision problems.
• Healthier digestion. The enzymes in pineapple juice help break down protein in your gut, which can help reduce constipation, gas, and bloating.

How to Make Pineapple Juice Without a Juicer

Anyone who’s ever enjoyed fresh-squeezed orange juice knows firsthand that the store-bought stuff doesn’t even come close in flavor and freshness, and pineapple is the same. Fresh pineapple juice is tangy-sweet, very refreshing, and excellent on its own and in cocktails and your favorite recipes. Making it fresh gives you the most nutrients with none of the additives and preservatives. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you can have it ready in just ten minutes. And you won’t even need a juicer!

Start with a Paradise Pineapple from Pittman & Davis (Pittman & Davis Paradise Pineapples have the scent and flavor of paradise and are fabulous when eaten fresh or added to your favorite recipes and cocktails):

1. Peel and chop the pineapple. First, slice the top and bottom off the fruit, then stand it on its bottom on a cutting board and use a long, sharp knife to strip off the leathery skin. Once the skin is off, remove any remaining “eyes” with a small paring knife. Cut the peeled flesh into chunks.
2. Purée the pineapple chunks. Add the pineapple chunks to the jar of a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until almost entirely smooth. Paradise Pineapples are generally very juicy, but if your purée needs help to become smooth, you may add a small amount of water or coconut water.
3.  Strain the mixture. Use a fine-mesh strainer to squeeze as much of the juice from the pulp as possible. (The leftover pulp can be used to make smoothies or added to cakes or quick breads.)
4. Enjoy! Pour yourself a glass and drink up, or use the juice in your favorite recipes and drinks. For extra nutrients, mix it with spinach or kale juice, or add it to your orange juice to give your morning beverage a tropical flavor. Fresh pineapple juice is also great in cocktails.

A single pineapple yields about three cups of juice. Store excess juice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze the juice in a silicone ice cube tray for up to four months.