The Costa Rica News (TCRN) – Most people remember the adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” However, in Costa Rica, it’s the substantial health benefits of pineapples that make this fruit the superfood of the tropics.
Although it’s a bit intimidating from the outside, the delicious pineapple center is packed with vitamins and minerals that are vital for a long, happy life. This tasty golden treat is also one of Costa Rica’s primary exports, so it’s readily available and incredibly easy on a budget at about 500 colones ($1) per fruit.
If you’ve been looking for a simple and inexpensive way to amp up your diet and health, here’s four fantastic reasons why you should pick up a pineapple on your next trip to the mercado (grocery store):
1. More Energy
Pineapples are loaded with manganese and vitamin B1 (thiamin), both of which aid in detoxifying the body of free radicals and improving overall energy levels. Basically, this power combo makes piñas (pineapples) one of Costa Rica’s tastiest and most versatile antioxidant choices out there.
2. Weight Loss
Pineapples get their structure from multiple flower pods fusing to create one yummy superfruit. Thanks to this core composition and natural dietary fibers like pectin, eating pineapple will make you feel full and satisfied, even though they’re only about 80 calories per cup.
3. Happy Bowels
In addition to the fiber benefits mentioned above, pineapples also contain bromelain, a complex but well-studied digestive enzyme that supports many anti-inflammatory processes. And as anyone with a sensitive stomach knows, a relaxed gut is a happy gut.
4. Better Immunity
While all of the aforementioned nutrients can contribute to overall better health, nothing beats good ole’ vitamin C, the most prevalent vitamin found in pineapples, to protect against all kinds of illnesses, ranging from colds to the renowned pirate affliction scurvy, to cancer. One serving (1 cup/165 grams) of pineapple supplies 105% of your daily recommended dose of this water-soluble antioxidant.
For more information on healthy living in Costa Rica, contact us!
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By Lindsey Vast
The Costa Rica News (TCRN)
San Jose, Costa Rica
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