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If you’ve ever tried to make jello salad with fresh pineapple, you’ve probably encountered one of the many side effects of bromelain. The substance will prevent your salad from gelling, and you will have an extremely messy dessert.
However, what’s bad for the jello may be good for you, under the right conditions. Many health claims are made about it, and some studies show promise.
Inflammation: Inflammation can be caused by many conditions, and may be the root cause for many others. As an example, doctors are beginning to think some types of heart disease are caused by chronic inflammation, putting it up near sodium and high cholesterol as a cause.
It can be taken to help deal with sprains and bruises, helping them to heal faster. Some doctors suggest patients take it prior to and after surgery as well, for the same reason.
Upset Stomach: Bromelain can help when you have an upset stomach from eating to much. It does this by helping break down proteins. It may also be useful in taking care of food allergies. One study suggested that adding it to wheat bread could make the bread edible to those allergic to wheat.
Blood Thinner: This could go in either pro or con category, depending on what you need or take. It can help prevent platelets from clumping together and causing hardening of the arteries.
The “con” side of that is if you have a clotting disorder, it could do a lot of damage. The same holds true if you take anti-platelet medications or blood thinners…including aspirin. This effect may also slow wound recovery time. Here are more “cons.”
Hypertension: If you have high blood pressure, it may be wise to skip the bromelain. Some studies indicate instances of tachycardia (heart beating too rapidly) when taken by people with high blood pressure.
Allergic Reaction: A surprising number of people are actually allergic to this supplement, and the allergies are serious. If you take it and experience wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and other signs of an allergic reaction, go to the emergency room.
Interactions: Aside from the anti-platelet and anticoagulant interactions, this supplement may interact with some antibiotics. If is a good idea to check with your doctor or pharmacist before you take this (or any other) supplement to make sure it won’t interact with anything you are already taking.
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Source by Mary Bodel