Can I eat pineapple during cold?

Having a cold is never fun. Your head is stuffed up, your throat is sore, and all you want to do is rest in bed. When you’re sick with a cold, your diet can play an important role in helping you recover quickly. One question that often comes up is whether it’s okay to eat pineapple when you have a cold. Keep reading to find out if pineapple is a good choice when you’re feeling under the weather.

What Are the Benefits of Pineapple When You Have a Cold?

Pineapple contains a special enzyme called bromelain that offers several health benefits, especially when you’re sick. Here are some of the top reasons to enjoy pineapple when you have a cold:

  • Bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in your nasal passages and throat.
  • Pineapple may help loosen mucus. Bromelain assists in thinning mucus secretions in your respiratory tract.
  • The vitamin C in pineapple can give your immune system a boost to help you fight your cold.
  • Pineapple is hydrating. Staying hydrated is key when you have a cold to thin out mucus and prevent dehydration.
  • Pineapple improves digestion. The bromelain enzyme aids digestion, which can be impaired when you’re sick.

The unique combination of nutrients and enzymes in pineapple give it cold-fighting abilities and make it a great food to eat when you’re under the weather.

Are There Any Precautions With Pineapple and Colds?

Pineapple is generally very beneficial to eat when you have a cold, but there are some precautions to keep in mind:

  • Pineapple is acidic. If you have a sore throat, the acidity could cause stinging or discomfort.
  • Eating a lot of pineapple could cause loose stools or diarrhea due to the bromelain enzyme. It’s best to eat it in moderation.
  • If you have any mouth sores or bleeding gums, pineapple could irritate these conditions.
  • If you have allergies to pineapples, avoid them while you have a cold.

To prevent any adverse effects, it’s best to consume pineapple in small amounts and avoid it if you experience any negative symptoms.

When Should You Avoid Pineapple With a Cold?

There are some situations when it may be best to avoid pineapple when you have a cold:

  • If you have an exceptionally sore throat, pineapple may worsen the pain due to its acidity.
  • If you start experiencing diarrhea after eating pineapple, stop consuming it until your symptoms resolve.
  • If you develop mouth sores or canker sores, avoid pineapple as well as other acidic foods.
  • If you have asthma, pineapple may worsen your symptoms so you may want to avoid it.

You should also use your best judgment and avoid pineapple if you experience any intolerances or negative side effects after eating it. Pay attention to how your body responds.

Nutrition Facts of Pineapple

Here is an overview of the nutrition facts of pineapple:

Nutrient Amount per 1 Cup
Calories 82
Carbs 21.7 g
Fiber 2.3 g
Sugars 16.2 g
Protein 1 g
Vitamin C 78.9 mg
Manganese 76% DV
Vitamin B6 9% DV
Copper 6% DV

Pineapple is high in vitamin C, manganese, and other key nutrients that can support your immune system when you have a cold.

Tips for Incorporating Pineapple Into Your Cold Diet

Here are some helpful tips for eating pineapple when you have a cold:

  • Enjoy fresh pineapple chunks in yogurt or cottage cheese.
  • Blend pineapple into smoothies along with banana and Greek yogurt for a nutrient boost.
  • Make a fresh fruit salad with pineapple, grapes, and melon.
  • Drink pineapple juice diluted with water and sip throughout the day.
  • Add pineapple to oatmeal or overnight oats.
  • Make a tropical chia pudding with pineapple and mango.
  • Enjoy a small bowl of pineapple as a snack between meals.

Stick to about 1 cup diced pineapple at a time to get the benefits without overdoing it. Drink plenty of fluids like herbal tea to stay hydrated.

Recipes With Pineapple for Colds

Here are a couple nutritious recipes using pineapple that are great to eat when you have a cold:

Honey Pineapple Smoothie

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup ice

Blend all ingredients together until smooth. The honey helps coat and soothe your throat.

Pineapple Chicken Zoodle Soup

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups pineapple chunks
  • 3 zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 tablespoon thyme
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Saute chicken and garlic in olive oil. Add broth, pineapple, zucchini noodles, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

The Bottom Line

Pineapple is a tasty fruit that provides some excellent health benefits when you’re down with a cold. The vitamin C, bromelain, and hydration it provides can help relieve your symptoms. Enjoy pineapple in moderation and avoid it if you experience any adverse effects. Pair pineapple with other nutritious fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy for a balanced cold diet.

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