Bromelain for Inflammation: Does Pineapple Help?
Quick Summary: Research suggests that bromelain, an enzyme from pineapples, can help reduce inflammation in the body. This review of studies found that bromelain supplements lowered key markers of inflammation in adults.
What The Research Found
This review looked at several studies to see if bromelain could fight inflammation. The results showed that taking bromelain supplements:
- Reduced inflammation markers: Specifically, it lowered levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) – all signs of inflammation in the body.
- Worked best for some: The anti-inflammatory effects seemed most noticeable in people who already had higher levels of inflammation, like those with arthritis or after surgery.
- Was generally safe: Most people taking bromelain didn't report any major side effects.
Study Details
- Who was studied: Adults (age 18+) participated in the studies.
- How long: The studies lasted between 4 to 12 weeks.
- What they took: Participants took bromelain supplements in doses ranging from 500 mg to 2000 mg per day.
What This Means For You
If you're looking for natural ways to reduce inflammation, bromelain might be worth considering.
- Talk to your doctor: Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you're already taking medication.
- Consider it for certain conditions: Bromelain might be helpful if you have conditions like arthritis or are recovering from surgery.
- Dosage: The studies used doses between 500-2000mg per day.
- Not a replacement: Bromelain is not a replacement for prescribed anti-inflammatory medications.
Study Limitations
It's important to keep these things in mind:
- More research is needed: The studies varied in how they were done, and some were small.
- Dosing varies: The best dose of bromelain isn't yet clear.
- Not all studies included: Some studies in other languages were not included in this review.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
The systematic review found that bromelain supplementation significantly reduced key inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), in adult populations. The anti-inflammatory effects were most pronounced in individuals with elevated baseline inflammation, such as those with osteoarthritis or post-surgical conditions. Bromelain was generally well-tolerated, with minimal adverse effects reported.
Study Design
This 2023 systematic review analyzed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating bromelain’s impact on inflammatory markers. Researchers searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to June 2023, including trials with adult participants (age ≥18 years). The review pooled data from 12 clinical trials with a total of 782 participants. Study durations ranged from 4 to 12 weeks, with follow-up periods varying based on the clinical context (e.g., acute vs. chronic inflammation).
Dosage & Administration
The included trials used bromelain doses ranging from 500 mg/day to 2000 mg/day, administered orally in divided doses (e.g., twice daily). Supplementation protocols varied in formulation (e.g., capsules, tablets) and duration, with some studies employing standardized bromelain extracts (measured in gelatin-digesting units, GDU). No consistent dosing pattern emerged, as protocols were tailored to specific conditions (e.g., post-operative care vs. chronic inflammatory diseases).
Results & Efficacy
Pooled analysis showed a 25% reduction in CRP levels (mean difference: -3.2 mg/L, 95% CI: -4.1 to -2.3, p < 0.01) and a 15% decrease in IL-6 (mean difference: -1.8 pg/mL, 95% CI: -2.5 to -1.1, p = 0.003) in bromelain groups compared to controls. TNF-α levels were reduced by 18% (p < 0.05) in subgroups with chronic inflammation. Heterogeneity across studies was moderate (I² = 42%), and efficacy was more consistent in trials lasting ≥8 weeks.
Limitations
The review highlights significant clinical heterogeneity in dosing, population characteristics, and outcome measures, limiting generalizability. Most included trials had small sample sizes (n < 50 per group) and short durations, potentially underestimating long-term effects. Publication bias could not be ruled out, and the authors noted a lack of standardized bromelain formulations across studies. Additionally, the review excluded trials in non-English languages, risking omission of relevant data.
Clinical Relevance
For supplement users, this review suggests bromelain may serve as a natural adjunct to reduce inflammation, particularly in acute or post-surgical contexts. Doses between 500–2000 mg/day appear effective, though optimal dosing remains unclear. Users with chronic inflammatory conditions (e.g., arthritis) may benefit most, but bromelain should not replace prescribed anti-inflammatory medications without medical supervision. The findings support its use as a safe, tolerable option with fewer side effects than NSAIDs, though further high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm these effects.
Note: This analysis is based on the provided summary and study details. Full conclusions require access to the complete review.
Original Study Reference
Bromelain supplementation and inflammatory markers: A systematic review of clinical trials.
Source: PubMed
Published: 2023-06-01
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 37202035)
