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 Bromelain is an enzyme that is extracted from the stem and fruit of the
pineapple. It is used to help reduce inflammation in the body, speed the healing
of wounds and bruises, and aid in the digestion of proteins. Preliminary studies
suggest that it may also be beneficial in helping to fight cardiovascular
disease and cancer.
Bromelain is widely accepted as an effective treatment for pain and swelling
caused by trauma (including sports injuries, surgery, and infections). Many
studies have repeatedly demonstrated bromelain’s ability help the body recover
from injury more quickly by preventing the accumulation of fibrin and potent
inflammatory substances, such as leukotrienes.
The German Expert Panel
(Commission E) has approved bromelain for treatment of swelling and athletic
injuries, and recommends a dose of 80 to 120 milligrams two to three times
daily.
There’s also strong evidence that a taking 1,200 to 1,800 milligrams of
bromelain each day can help relive painful inflammation in those that suffer
with rheumatoid arthritis. When combined with antibiotics, bromelain may also
help reduce inflammation that accompanies sinusitis. Studies have shown that
bromelain is beneficial for reducing swelling and improving breathing.
Bromelain inhibits the aggregation (clumping) of platelets, and so it has been
theorized that it might help prevent heart disease caused by plaque formation
that could lead to a heart attack. It has been studied for its effectiveness in
treating angina and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), both alone and
in combination with other therapies.
However, higher doses of bromelain may
increase the heart rate and the effects of prescription blood thinners often
prescribed to treat heart disease; people with cardiovascular disease should
talk to their physician before trying bromelain supplements.
Bromelain may increase the absorption of some drugs, including
antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and certain blood pressure medications. It has
been theorized that bromelain may help cancer treatments be more successful.
However, some researchers worry that bromelain could increase the effects of
other medications as well, most notably blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin (Coumadin);
anti-inflammatory medications such as Motrin, Advil, naproxen, and aspirin;
antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix); herbs,
such as ginkgo, saw
palmetto, or garlic;
and high doses of vitamin
E. People who have are taking any of these substances, or who suffer from
bleeding disorders should take this supplement with caution.
Bromelain may help those suffering from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) by
inhibiting the prostaglandin hormones that cause premenstrual cramps, although
some studies have shown that bromelain may actually increase bleeding during
menstruation.
If you suffer from pain or inflammation, or have recently sustained an injury,
you may very well benefit from taking bromelain supplements. There is no
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for bromelain, but doses of up to 1,000
milligrams taken three times daily have shown no toxic effects.
Bromelain
supplements are available in tablets and in a topical cream. Some experts
recommend taking bromelain on an empty stomach (potatoes and soybeans may
interfere with its absorption) in conjunction with magnesium,
which may increase the effects of bromelain.
People who are allergic to pineapples, tree or grass pollen, carrots,
celery, fennel,
bees, latex, or flour should avoid bromelain, as it has been reported to cause
allergic and asthmatic reactions in these people.
However, few serious side effects have been reported with the use of bromelain.
The most common side effects reported are stomach upset and diarrhea. Keep in
mind that bromelain may increase the sedative effects of certain medications and
substances, including alcohol, antidepressants, barbiturates, and narcotics such
as codeine, and use caution when combining bromelain with these substances.
BROMELAIN - IN STOCK
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 500 mg. 90 Tablets C04BROE-90 $16.95
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