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Pineapple is a delicious reminder of vacation, sunshine and relaxation, and is an icon of island vibes. Its sweet tang might remind you of sipping piña coladas on the beach, but there’s more to the tropical fruit than its delightful taste and exotic feel.  Pineapple has significant health benefits that will make you look and smell just as great as it will make you feel.  The power of pineapple lives in its nutrients, providing the body with essential vitamins for optimum internal and external heath. Here are five healthy reasons to stock up on Hawaii’s native fruit today.

Improves digestion

Pineapple is a great snack when you’re feeling bloated or heavy, as the fruit contains bromelain, an excellent proteinase that helps to effectively break down proteins in our food. This compound is the pineapple’s main agent that helps regulate the pancreatic secretions that aid digestion!

Keeps your gums healthy

Just one cup of pineapple contains all of your vitamin C recommended intake for the day, a crucial ingredient in the recipe for good oral health. While eating pineapple, you are getting right at the spot as the vitamins in the fruit are in direct contact with your gums! Because of this, constant consumption can lower your risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease!

Maintains firm, youthful skin

Pineapples can help you achieve your goal of younger looking skin! The tropical treat helps to maintain the skin’s elasticity and firmness thanks to its high amount of vitamin C increasing collagen synthesis. Amino acids found in the fruit are also skin-friendly nutrients that help to balance redness and oil. To directly reap the benefits, apply fresh pineapple directly to your face either as a mask or in its original hollowed form.

Strengthens nails

Weak and dry nails may suggest a vitamin A deficiency, while easily broken nails may signal a deficiency in vitamin B. Luckily, pineapples are packed with great amounts of both, making them a tasty source for nail repair. Apply pineapples topically to your nails and cuticles to soak up the vitamins essential for strength and hydration.

Prevents hair loss

Pineapples are filled antioxidants such as vitamin C, an important element in preventing hair loss and combating free radicals, which damage hair growth. Eat the fruit whole or drink it in a juice to benefit from this water-soluble vitamin that along with fighting hair loss, also provides nourishment to the hair follicles.