What Is Bromelain?

Bromelain: What Is It?
Bromelain, a substance that has gained prominence in recent years, is a natural enzyme complex with significant effects on our health. Derived mainly from the stem and fruit of pineapples, bromelain possesses various benefits ranging from supporting the digestive system to boosting the immune system. Let's explore together the health effects of bromelain.
What Is Bromelain?
Bromelain, an effective compound in recent years, is a protein-digesting enzyme obtained commercially from the stem and fruit of pineapples. Bromelain derived from the stem and fruit may exhibit variations. Bromelain is a complex comprising various proteolytic effective components. Proteinase is the most active group, constituting approximately 2% of the total protein.
Extraction of Bromelain:
Bromelain, commercially obtained from the fruit and stem of pineapples, contains a mixture of various proteolytically effective components along with the active ingredient of bromelain. Various methods have been explored for the pure extraction of bromelain. Currently, it is obtained by cooling pineapple juice after centrifugation, ultrafiltration, and lyophilization processes.
Health Effects of Bromelain:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Effect:
2. Studies suggest that bromelain is used as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent in the treatment of arthritis symptoms.
3. Antimicrobial Effect:
4. Bromelain is indicated to be protective against diarrhea caused by E. coli and V. Cholerae bacteria. It also exhibits antifungal effects against Candida albicans, as demonstrated in in vitro studies. In combination with antibiotics, bromelain has been found to be more effective against pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, urinary tract infections, and abscesses.
5. Antioxidant Effect:
6. Major phenolic acids found in pineapple juice have been identified as responsible for antioxidant activity. Pineapple is also a good source of magnesium, a cofactor for many enzymes, contributing to antioxidant effects.
7. Anticancer Effect:
8. Numerous studies suggest that bromelain shows antimetastatic and antimutagenic activity. It has been found to inhibit the growth of breast cancer and other cancer cells.
9. Cardiovascular Effect:
10. Studies with bromelain indicate prevention of cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart diseases, hypertension, peripheral artery diseases, heart failure, rheumatic heart diseases, congenital heart diseases, and stroke.
11. Digestive Effect:
12. Bromelain found in pineapple juice assists in breaking down proteins in consumed foods, helps eliminate harmful bacteria in the stomach and intestines, and regulates appetite.

Side Effects of Bromelain:

1. Gastrointestinal Effects:
2. The most commonly observed side effect of bromelain users is gastrointestinal effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, palpitations, indigestion, loss of appetite, headache, muscle pain, dizziness, and numbness. Women may also experience uterine bleeding and heavy menstrual bleeding. Individuals with peptic ulcers should avoid using bromelain, and those with any digestive disorders should consult a doctor before use.
3. Allergic Reactions:
4. Another side effect observed in bromelain users is severe allergic reactions. Skin allergies such as urticaria, skin rash, itching, and skin swelling are common. In some individuals, throat problems and difficulty breathing can also occur. People allergic to carrots, fennel, celery, rye, papaya, or pollen and latex may experience an allergy to bromelain.

Bromelain Dosage:
A daily dose ranging from 200-800 mg may be sufficient for potential effects.
In Summary:
Bromelain is a protein-digesting substance derived from pineapples, with potential effects on health such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and more. It is commonly used for its supportive effects on digestion and diuretic properties. To benefit from its potential effects, doses of 200-800 mg are recommended. While its use is generally safe, cautious use is advised due to possible side effects.