> 
> 	A Simple Pineapple
> 	 
> 	The pineapple is a member of the bromeliad family.   It is extremely
> rare that bromeliads produce edible fruit. The pineapple is the only
> available edible bromeliad today.
> 	 
> 	It is a multiple fruit. One pineapple is actually made up of dozens
> of individual floweret's that grow together to form the entire fruit. Each
> scale on a pineapple is evidence of a separate flower.
> 	 
> 	Pineapples stop ripening the minute they are picked.  No special way
> of storing them will help ripen them further.  Color is relatively
> unimportant in determining ripeness.  Choose your pineapple by smell.  If it
> smells fresh, tropical and sweet, it will be a good fruit.
> 	 
> 	The more scales on the pineapple, the sweeter and juicier the taste.
> 	 
> 	After you cut off the top, you can plant it.  It should grow much
> like a sweet potato will.
> 	 
> 	This delicious fruit is not only sweet and tropical; it also offers
> many benefits to our health. Pineapple is a remarkable fruit.  
> 	We find it enjoyable because of its lush, sweet and exotic flavor,
> but it may also be one of the most healthful foods available today.  If we
> take a more detailed look at it, we will find that pineapple is valuable for
> easing indigestion, arthritis or sinusitis.
> 	 
> 	The juice has an anthelmintic effect; it helps get rid of intestinal
> worms.
> 	 
> 	Let's look at how pineapple affects other conditions.
> 	 
> 	Pineapple is high in manganese, a mineral that is critical to
> development of strong bones and connective tissue.  A cup of fresh pineapple
> will give you nearly 75% of the recommended daily amount.
> 	 
> 	It is particularly helpful to older adults, whose bones tend to
> become brittle with age.
> 	 
> 	Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, is the key to pineapple's value.
> Proteolytic means "breaks down protein", which is why pineapple is known to
> be a digestive aid. It helps the body digest proteins more efficiently.
> Bromelain is also considered an effective anti-inflammatory.
> 	 
> 	Regular ingestion of at least one half cup of fresh pineapple daily
> is purported to relieve painful joints common to osteoarthritis.  It also
> produces mild pain relief.
> 	 
> 	In Germany, bromelain is approved as a post-injury medication
> because it is thought to reduce inflammation and swelling.
> 	 
> 	Orange juice is a popular liquid for those suffering from a cold
> because it is high in Vitamin C. Fresh pineapple is not only high in this
> vitamin, but because of the Bromelain, it has the ability to reduce mucous
> in the throat.  If you have a cold with a productive cough, add pineapple to
> your diet.  It is commonly used in Europe as a post-operative measure to cut
> mucous after certain sinus and throat operations.
> 	 
> 	Those individuals who eat fresh pineapple daily report fewer sinus
> problems related to allergies. In and of itself, pineapple has a very low
> risk for allergies.
> 	 
> 	Pineapple is also known to discourage blood clot development.  This
> makes it a valuable dietary addition for frequent fliers and others who may
> be at risk for blood clots.
> 	 
> 	An old folk remedy for morning sickness is fresh pineapple juice.
> it really works! Fresh juice and some nuts first thing in the morning often
> make a difference.
> 	 
> 	It's also good for a healthier mouth. The fresh juice discourages
> plaque growth.
>