FACTS

Bromelain, an enzyme derived from pineapple juice, has powerful anti-inflammatory and protein-digesting properties. An excellent digestive aid, bromelain enhances the absorption of nutrients from foods and supplements.  Bromelain can also be taken to reduce pain and inflammation following injury, and in at least one respect offers a decided advantage over nonsteroidal and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naprosyn. Such drugs work by inhibiting prostaglandins, hormone-like compounds that can cause inflammation in many parts of the body. Paradoxically, protaglandins actually have a protective effect on the stomach lining, which is why NSAIDs can cause problems ranging from mild stomach upset to the more serious bleeding ulcers. In contrast, bromelain blocks inflammation by stimulating the production of plasmin, a compound in the body that breaks down fibrinogen, a substance involved in localized swelling. Although bromelain works well in reducing pain and inflammation, it does so without the gastrointestinal distress typical of NSAIDs.

Bromelain is also growing in popularity among athletes who suffer frequent wear-and-tear injuries. Because of its effect on fibrinogen, bromelain may also prevent an even more serious problem: Blood clots. Fibrinogen is necessary for the proper clotting of blood do that we don't bleed to death when we are injured, but abnormally high levels of fibrinogen can cause blood clots to form spontaneously, which can lead to heart attack or stroke. In fact, high levels of fibrinogen have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

Smokers have higher than normal levels of fibrinogen and are at greater risk of having a heart attack. In one study of patients with heart disease, bromelain was shown to break down fibrinogen and prevent blood cells from sticking together. According to another German study, a dose of 1,000 to 1,400 mg. per say of bromelain helped to completely relieve angina, or chest pain, in 14 heart patients. Some patients saw results in as quickly as 3 days; others, within 90 days. It you gave a history of heart disease, you may want to talk to your physician or natural healer about adding this supplement to your daily regimen. Bromelain is also included in many formulas for cardiovascular health.

POSSIBLE BENEFITS

• Aid digestion.
• Reduces swelling and pain due to inflammation.
• Prevents blood clots.

THE RIGHT AMOUNT

1. To aid digestion, take one or two tablets after meals.
2. To reduce inflammation, take up to three 500-mg. tablets daily.
3. For cardiovascular health, take one 500-mg. tablet daily.

Personal Advice
Look for "Gelatin Digestion Unit" (GDU) on the label (450-600 GDU should be stated on the label).

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