Pineapple
What is a Pineapple?
Pineapples have an abundance of beneficial nutrients and compounds in them. Research has been limited on pineapples and autism, however, there is a lot of research that suggests that the nutrients and compounds within pineapples can help with ASD symptoms and behavior.
Pineapples are tropical fruit which grow on trees and have a unique and sweet taste.
Pineapples are high in fiber contributing to healthy bowel movements and a healthy gut.
Pineapple is a very strong scent which may contribute to sensory overload for some individuals with ASD [2].
Eating pineapple fresh or canned (in natural juice, not syrup) is the best way to get the nutrients from it [3].
Pineapple is ranked the third most important tropical fruit worldwide after bananas and citrus [4].
Pineapples naturally contain fiber and a natural digestive enzyme called bromelain, which is great for kids with digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation. [1, 3, 4]
Given the wide variety of nutrients in pineapples and the digestive benefits, pineapples are a great fruit for kids on the spectrum!
Nutrient Breakdown
Pineapple is a great source of:
Foods Containing Pineapple
Sweets e.g. jellies
Juices & smoothies/cordial
Jam
Fruit salads
Dried fruit mix
Yogurts
Ice cream
Desserts/Puddings
Cakes
Salsa
Savory meals e.g. pizza, sweet and sour chicken, salads, pies, curries
Compotes/sauces/preserves
As a garnish
Pineapple Alternatives
If your child doesn’t like pineapple yet or they are sensitive to them, here are some alternatives that are similar in nutritional value!
Food Reactions
The body can respond to foods in many different ways including food allergies, food sensitivities, or food intolerances. If you suspect a food reaction, you can either choose to avoid the food or seek food reaction testing. Click here more information on the difference in types of food reactions and testing options.
DISCLAIMER: Always consult with your pediatrician and/or your Registered Dietitian to help you test for a food reaction or to aid you in making individualized dietary changes.
Pineapple & Autism in the Research
Pineapples and Sensory Preferences
According to one particular study, pineapple odor is significantly less pleasant to those with ASD compared to those without ASD [2].
Pineapples and the Gut
Pineapple has been shown to help with digestion. It contains an enzyme, bromelain, which aids the breakdown of protein. However, there are only small quantities of this enzyme found in the flesh. Higher quantities can be found in the stem of the plant [3].
Pineapple has an abundance of evidence vouching that it has a good nutritional profile. It is also known for having a positive impact on the digestive system, which may help individuals with ASD [1, 4].
Pineapple is a good source of fiber, which means it aids digestion and promotes bowel movements. These are both good for individuals with ASD as they are prone to gut issues, such as constipation and diarrhea [1, 4].
Fiber has a natural therapeutic effect and is an anti-inflammatory agent for the gastrointestinal tract, helping to relieve any upset tummies and cramping and preventing inflammation [3]. Fibre also makes the gut happy which in turn has a positive impact on the brain & behavior [3].
One study suggests that pineapple helps kill off the harmful bacteria found in the gut, meaning there is a higher ratio of good bacteria than the harmful bad bacteria. This leads to a positive effect on the brain and behavior, sometimes improving ASD symptoms [3].
Pineapples and Antioxidants/Immunity
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is an antioxidant. These antioxidants help fight off bad cells, such as free radicals, infections, and bacteria [1, 4].
Malic acid is found in pineapples, and it boosts immunity [4].
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Description text goes here[1] Mohd Ali M, Hashim N, Abd Aziz S, Lasekan O. Pineapple (Ananas comosus): A comprehensive review of nutritional values, volatile compounds, health benefits, and potential food products. Food Res Int. 2020 Nov;137:109675. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2020.109675. Epub 2020 Sep 17. PMID: 33233252.
[2] ] Hrdlicka, M., Vodicka, J., Havlovicova, M. et al. Brief Report: Significant Differences in Perceived Odor Pleasantness Found in Children with ASD. J Autism Dev Disord 41, 524–527 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-010-1084-x
[3] Debnath, P., Dey, P., Chanda, A., Bhakta, T., A Survey on Pineapple and its medicinal value. Scholars Academic Journal of Pharmacy (SAJP). 2012. Sep-Oct., Volume 1, Issue 1.
[4] Md. Farid Hossain, Shaheen Akhtar, Mustafa Anwar. Nutritional Value and Medicinal Benefits of Pineapple. International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences. Vol. 4, No. 1, 2015, pp. 84-88. doi: 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20150401.22
[5] Lebaka VR, Wee YJ, Ye W, Korivi M. Nutritional Composition and Bioactive Compounds in Three Different Parts of Mango Fruit. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Jan 16;18(2):741. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18020741. PMID: 33467139; PMCID: PMC7830918.
[6] Septembre-Malaterre A, Stanislas G, Douraguia E, Gonthier MP. Evaluation of nutritional and antioxidant properties of the tropical fruits banana, litchi, mango, papaya, passion fruit and pineapple cultivated in Réunion French Island. Food Chem. 2016 Dec 1;212:225-33. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.05.147. Epub 2016 May 25. PMID: 27374527.
Authors
Jennifer Finlay-Mulligan, BSc, ANutr.
Edited and reviewed by Brittyn Coleman, MS, RDN/LD, CLT
