Cholesterol is essentially a fat that is essential for the body. It plays an important role in building cell membranes, producing hormones and synthesizing vitamin D. However, when blood cholesterol levels exceed the safe limit, especially LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein), which is considered bad cholesterol, the risk of facing cardiovascular diseases will increase significantly. LDL easily accumulates in the blood vessel walls, forming plaques that cause atherosclerosis, obstructing blood circulation and increasing the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.
In addition to LDL, triglycerides are another form of neutral fat in the blood, if high, it is also a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Meanwhile, HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein), also known as good cholesterol, has the effect of protecting the cardiovascular system by carrying excess LDL from the blood to the liver for processing. Therefore, it is important to maintain a balance between these types of cholesterol.
Hyperlipidemia, also known as dyslipidemia, is a condition in which there is too much bad cholesterol (LDL) or triglycerides in the blood. This is one of the leading silent but dangerous causes of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction or stroke.
To control blood lipids, in addition to taking medication as prescribed by a doctor, many people are looking for natural, simple and easy-to-do solutions at home. Among them, pineapple juice, a familiar and cheap drink, is considered a powerful assistant to help remove bad cholesterol from the arteries. Pineapple is not only a delicious, easy-to-eat fruit, but is also considered a natural weapon to help reduce cholesterol and improve blood vessel health. With a cheap price, easy to buy and easy to prepare, pineapple juice is an ideal choice for those who need to control blood lipids and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits of drinking pineapple juice every day?
1. Helps break down LDL cholesterol plaque
Pineapple is one of the few fruits that contain high levels of bromelain, an enzyme with natural anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that bromelain not only soothes inflammation but also has the ability to break down bad cholesterol structures that tend to accumulate in blood vessel walls. As a result, it helps reduce the risk of plaque formation, thereby reducing the risk of arterial blockage and reducing blood circulation.
2. Supports fat metabolism, reduces triglycerides and total cholesterol
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, bromelain also helps enhance digestive activity and promote lipid metabolism. When using pineapple juice regularly, the body will easily eliminate excess fat, thereby reducing triglycerides, while improving total cholesterol levels (synthesized from LDL, HDL and triglycerides) in the blood naturally.
3. Fight oxidative damage
One of the reasons why LDL cholesterol becomes dangerous is when it is oxidized, creating conditions for the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. Pineapple contains many natural antioxidants, along with bromelain, which can slow down this damage. Thanks to that, pineapple juice helps protect blood vessels from premature degeneration and maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
4. Reduce systemic inflammation
Bromelain in pineapple is not only beneficial for blood vessels but is also known for its anti-inflammatory effects in other tissues in the body. For people with arthritis, chronic diseases, or inflammation due to prolonged oxidative stress, drinking pineapple juice can be a natural, safe support method to help control inflammation and reduce pain without abusing anti-inflammatory drugs.
How to use pineapple juice effectively
If you want to use it for the purpose of supporting blood lipid reduction, prioritize fresh pure juice or squeeze it yourself at home. Avoid bottled juices with added sugar, as excess sugar can cause triglycerides to increase, which is counterproductive.
A reasonable dose should be maintained at about 100–150ml per day, taken in the morning or after meals to avoid stomach irritation. Pineapple is mildly acidic, so people with a history of stomach pain should drink it after eating or dilute it with filtered water.
In addition, tooth enamel can be affected if exposed to pineapple acid for a long time, so after drinking pineapple juice, rinse your mouth with clean water or use a straw to limit direct contact.
People with kidney disease or on a potassium-restricted diet should consult a doctor before using it, as pineapple also contains a relatively high amount of potassium.
