Although the pineapple is a native of Paraguay and Brazil, it was introduced into Europe by none other than Christopher Columbus. The season when pineapples flood the market is between the months of March and June. However, in many local markets, the fruit is available throughout the year. Although pineapples are popular tropical fruits, not many people know the nutrition facts of the fruit.

So, here are some pineapple nutrition facts that you should know.

The pineapple is a powerhouse of minerals and vitamins. It contains calcium, phosphorus, potassium iron, copper, sodium, manganese, magnesium and selenium. In addition, it also contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E and K along with naturally occurring sugars, namely glucose, fructose and dextrose. One ounce of dried pineapple, or 28 gm, contains 85 calories, while 165 gm of fresh pineapple contains 82.5 calories. If you look at canned pineapple, half a cup will contain 60 calories. All the calories in the pineapple come from the naturally occurring sugars in the fruit. This is the reason that diabetics are told not to consume pineapples.

The fruit contains absolutely no cholesterol, and very little quantities of sodium and fat. In 100 gm fresh pineapple, there is 15 mg of Vitamin C. Hence, the fruit is a rich source of the vitamin. In addition, practically all the B group vitamins are present in the pineapple, making it one of the healthiest fruits that a person can eat.

Pineapple is a rich source of fiber and therefore, it is recommended that anyone suffering from constipation or digestive disorders eat pineapple. The presence of Vitamin B1 helps in improving the circulation of blood in the body and it also problems more supply of oxygen to the RBCs. The vitamin also helps in the synthesis of carbohydrates. The presence of manganese in the fruit aids in energy production in the body, and it also helps in proper usage of vitamins B1 and C by the body. In addition, the fruit contains an enzyme called Bromelain that helps to eliminate excessive mucus from the body and also aids in reducing swelling due health problems like gout, carpal tunnel syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis.