Pineapple is a popular summer fruit due to its distinct flavor, prominent sweetness, and aromatic fragrance. Beyond its delicious taste, pineapple offers numerous health benefits and is extremely affordable when in season. It is commonly used as a dessert fruit, but it also serves as an ingredient in various savory dishes.
Why does eating pineapple cause a tingling sensation on the tongue?
One rare drawback of pineapple is that it can lead to a tingling sensation in the mouth. Dr. Doan Hong, from the Institute of Applied Medicine in Vietnam, explains to Suc Khoe & Doi Song newspaper that pineapple contains a significant amount of the enzyme bromelain – a mixture of digestive enzymes that offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
Why does pineapple cause a tingling sensation? (Photo: Istock)
The enzyme bromelain is concentrated in the core and skin of the pineapple. When cooking meat with pineapple, this enzyme breaks down proteins, tenderizing the meat. However, when it comes into contact with the sensitive skin and tissues inside the mouth, it can cause a tingling sensation on the tongue, lips, and cheeks. This feeling usually subsides within a few hours.
For some individuals with sensitive constitutions, eating pineapple may trigger allergic reactions, ranging from a tingling tongue to more severe symptoms such as rashes, hives, or even difficulty breathing. In such cases, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
The core of the pineapple, where the bromelain content is up to 20 times higher than in the fruit’s flesh, is the primary culprit for the tingling sensation.
Tips for Eating Pineapple Without the Tingle
Now that you know why pineapple can cause a tingling tongue, you can take preventive measures to continue enjoying this delicious, nutritious, and economical fruit. To reduce the tingling sensation when eating pineapple, try the following methods:
– If consuming fresh pineapple, peel and cut it into small pieces, then soak them in a mild salt water solution for about 10 minutes. This inhibits the protein-breaking enzyme, reducing the tingling sensation. Additionally, the salt water enhances the flavor of the fruit.
– For stir-fried or cooked pineapple dishes, remove the eyes and the core, then rinse and briefly soak the fruit in mild salt water. The heat from cooking also helps reduce the tingling sensation and minimizes the risk of allergic reactions associated with raw pineapple consumption.
Health Benefits of Eating Pineapple
Pineapple offers several health benefits:
Aids Digestion: Pineapple is beneficial for individuals with pancreatic insufficiency, helping them digest food more efficiently. You can eat pineapple after meals or incorporate it into sour soups or stir-fries for delicious and nutritious dishes that stimulate digestion.
Reduces Cancer Risk: Research indicates that the enzyme bromelain in pineapple may inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the breast, skin, bile ducts, stomach, and colon.
Boosts Immunity and Reduces Inflammation: Pineapple is rich in vitamins, minerals, and enzymes like bromelain, which can strengthen the immune system and combat inflammation.
Who Should Avoid Eating Large Amounts of Pineapple?
Despite its health benefits, it’s important to consume pineapple in moderation. As explained in the answer to “Why does eating pineapple cause a tingling tongue?,” excessive pineapple consumption can lead to oral discomfort.
Individuals who should avoid eating large amounts of pineapple include:
– Overweight or diabetic individuals: Overeating this fruit can contribute to weight gain and elevated blood sugar levels due to its high natural sugar content.
– People with stomach or duodenal ulcers: Pineapple contains organic acids and enzymes that can aggravate stomach and duodenal ulcers.
– Pregnant women at risk of miscarriage or preterm labor: Pineapple may stimulate uterine contractions, potentially leading to miscarriage.
– People who are hungry: Eating pineapple on an empty stomach can cause stomach discomfort, nausea, and other unpleasant symptoms.
Source: VTC News
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