Written by 9:00 pm Mediterranean Diet & Nutrition, Mediterranean diet Breakfast Recipes, Recipes • 7 Comments

Pineapple Core – Healthy & Resourceful

pineapple core health

Did you know that the core of a pineapple is full of healthy nutrients?


Did you also know that the EPA estimates that Americans throw away $1,600 worth of food each year?

[blockquote size=”full|half|third|fourth|two-thirds|three-fourths” align=”left|center|right”]In honor of Earth Day, The Recipe Redux members were challenged to show how we reduce food waste.[/blockquote]

pineapple core spinach smoothie

An easy way to reduce food waste is to figure out how you can use part of a food you would normally toss out. For example, the pineapple core.

Pineapple – Healthy Fruit & Core

At just 82 calories per 1 cup, this fruit is packed with beneficial nutrients such as Vitamin C, Manganese, Dietary Fiber and Bromelian that can aid in –

  • Immune System Health
    • High in antioxidants and can help fight cellular damage
    • 1 serving contains 50% of your daily recommended value of Vitamin C
    • Components in the core of a pineapple may help decrease mucus in the throat and nose, assisting in sinus inflammation, allergies and cough suppression
  • Improved Digestion
    • A good source of dietary fiber, which helps with regularity and intestinal health
    • Contains significant levels of the enzyme Bromelian, which breaks down protein and may assist in digestion
  • Anti-Inflammatory Benefits & Improved Energy
    • Substances in the core are believed to help reduce severe inflammation in certain people
    • Pineapple contains Thiamin, which is a B-Vitamin that plays a role in energy production
  • Blood Clot Reduction
    • The high levels of Bromelian found in the core of pineapple can help reduce excessive clotting of the blood because it acts as a blood thinner and anticoagulant
    • It’s possible that this may also increase blood flow to the uterus, making it an ingredient of interest to women suffering from infertility or undergoing IVF treatment

Use the Core – Don’t Trash It

I find the pineapple core very fibrous and a bit tough to eat. However, adding it to smoothies is a great way to get all the great nutrients and flavor.

pineapple core health2

Whenever I have a pineapple, I slice up the core and place it in a sealable bag. The bag then goes in the freezer. Next time I make a smoothie, I just grab 2-3 slices of the frozen core and pop it in the blender with the other ingredients. It gives the smoothie the same great pineapple flavor, added health benefits and I don’t need to add ice since the core is frozen.

pineapple core health3

Pineapple Core Spinach Smoothie

Pineapple Core & Spinach Smoothie

A simple and delicious smoothie that is full of healthy nutrients! Perfect for a post-workout drink or an easy breakfast you can take on the go.
Course smoothie
Cuisine American
Keyword pineapple, pineapple core, smoothie
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1 serving
Author Brynn at The Domestic Dietitian

Ingredients

  • 3-4 slices of frozen pineapple core
  • 1 handful of spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 scoop protein powder or 1/2 cup greek yogurt
  • 2 tsp freshly grated ginger

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth

This smoothie recipe is easy to make, tastes great and is full of healthy nutrients! Adding a little protein powder (or greek yogurt) makes it a great post-workout drink or easy breakfast you can take on the go.

pineapple core spinach smoothie2

Check out what other great tips my fellow Recipe Redux Members are sharing to help reduce food waste…recipe-redux-linky-logo

 

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Tags: , , Last modified: September 29, 2021
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