Speeds Up Muscle Recovery
Pineapple is packed with nutrients that help the body recover from a strenuous workout. For one thing, it’s a great source of Vitamin C. Just one cup of pineapple chunks contains 78% of an adult’s recommended daily intake. Vitamin C is essential for helping the body repair tissue damage caused by exercise. Pineapple is also a good source of antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation throughout your body.
But that’s not all pineapple can do for post-workout. This tropical fruit is also rich in bromelain, which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and can help reduce muscle swelling and soreness after a workout. Bromelain is also known to improve blood circulation, which can aid in the healing process.
Doctors recommend eating pineapple or drinking pineapple juice as a post-workout snack. They also suggest enjoying a cup of pineapple chunks or half a cup of pineapple juice within 30 minutes of finishing a workout. People can also add pineapple to smoothies or enjoy it as part of a healthy breakfast or lunch. Those who dislike the taste of pineapple can take bromelain supplements instead. Talking to a doctor before starting any new supplement regimen is crucial.