Ananas, Ananassaft und Bromelain-Kapseln – natürliche Kombination zur Förderung der Bromelain Wirkung im Alltag

Bromelain – pineapple enzyme with versatile benefits

When you think of pineapple, its sweet, tropical taste probably comes to mind, along with the slight tingle on your tongue as the last piece disappears from your plate. But pineapple can do far more than just put us in a vacation mood. It contains a special active ingredient that makes it a true insider tip for health: the enzyme bromelain . This natural pineapple enzyme has been the subject of scientific research for years because it interacts with the body's own processes in fascinating ways and exhibits an astonishing range of mechanisms of action.

What makes the effects of bromelain so interesting? And when might it be beneficial to take bromelain specifically? In this article, you'll learn why this enzyme is far more than just a digestive aid and why it's considered one of the most fascinating natural substances.

What is bromelain and why is it important for you? Understanding the effects of bromelain: How enzymes work in the body How bromelain's effects unfold in your body Bromelain's effects on inflammatory processes Bromelain's influence on swelling Bromelain's effects on vascular health Bromelain's effects in sports Bromelain's effects on joint problems Bromelain's effects on digestion Bromelain vs. pineapple fruit: Where is the real benefit found? Bromelain dosage: How to achieve the best results Buying bromelain: What to look for in terms of quality Our recommendation 5 tips to optimally utilize the effects of bromelain Conclusion

The most important points in brief

Bromelain is a natural enzyme from pineapple that can break down proteins in the body and thus support various metabolic processes.

The effects of bromelain are being researched particularly in connection with digestion, vascular health, regeneration and inflammatory processes.

For optimal bromelain effectiveness, rely on high-quality, standardized preparations.

What is bromelain and why is it important for you?

Bromelain is a natural enzyme extracted from various parts of the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). Native Americans were already aware of the value of this substance, having used the pineapple fruit for medicinal purposes for centuries – long before modern science even knew which active ingredient it contained.

The crucial discovery came in the 1950s: scientists found that the pineapple stem contains significantly more bromelain than the fruit itself. Until then, the stem had been considered a waste product. This finding enabled, for the first time, the economical extraction of the enzyme and the targeted application of bromelain's effects in modern medicine.

Half a pineapple with visible core – main source of the enzyme bromelain

Understanding the effects of bromelain: How enzymes work in the body

To understand the effects of bromelain, it helps to know what enzymes are in general. They function as biological catalysts and accelerate chemical reactions in your body without being consumed themselves. Enzymes perform a wide variety of tasks in your organism:

Digestive enzymes break down food into usable components.
Metabolic enzymes are involved in energy production.
Degrading enzymes help break down pollutants and waste products.

Bromelain belongs to the group of proteolytic enzymes, also known as proteases . These enzymes can break down proteins into smaller components. Imagine it like this: proteins consist of long chains of amino acids, strung together like beads on a necklace. The pineapple enzyme can cut these chains at specific points – much like scissors cutting a rope. This fundamental property is key to bromelain's diverse effects in the body.

This is how the effects of bromelain unfold in your body

The pineapple enzyme bromelain has fascinated scientists for years. More and more researchers are investigating how this enzyme can intervene in various bodily processes. Several interesting mechanisms of action of bromelain have emerged, which we will describe in more detail below.

Bromelain's effects on inflammatory processes

A key research focus is on inflammatory processes. The pineapple enzyme can interact with certain messenger substances that play a role in inflammation. Studies show that bromelain can influence the production of various inflammatory mediators.

Of particular interest: Protein complexes that accumulate in tissues during chronic inflammation can be broken down by the enzyme. This property makes the effects of bromelain especially relevant for people with inflammatory conditions (1).

Why is this relevant? Inflammatory processes are fundamentally normal in our bodies – they activate the immune system, for example, to fight off harmful foreign substances. The problem lies in chronic inflammation. This often smolders unnoticed in the body for years and is involved in the development of numerous lifestyle diseases.

Active lifestyle – Bromelain supports mobility and well-being

Influence of bromelain on swelling

Bromelain's effects are being intensively studied, particularly its potential to influence fibrin breakdown. Fibrin is a protein that accumulates in tissues during injuries and inflammation, leading to swelling (2). Simultaneously, studies suggest that this pineapple enzyme may support lymphatic drainage. These properties make research particularly exciting in the following areas:

Sports injuries and bruises
Healing processes after surgical procedures
Joint pain with swelling symptoms
Chronic lymphatic congestion (3)

Bromelain's effects on vascular health

Numerous studies have observed that the enzyme can inhibit platelet aggregation. This makes bromelain an interesting subject of research for questions concerning blood circulation and vascular health . Other effects investigated in the cardiovascular system include:

Influence on inflammatory processes in the vessel walls
Supporting the flow properties of the blood
Possible positive effects on blood lipid levels (4, 5)

Bromelain and heart health – possible effects on blood circulation and vascular function 📷 Image 8 (Woman doing an intense outdoor workout on a bar)

Bromelain's effects in sports

After intense training, tiny micro-tears occur in the muscle fibers – a normal part of the adaptation process. This is precisely where science comes in: The effects of bromelain are being investigated to understand how the enzyme can support the following processes:

Accelerating muscle regeneration after training
Influence on muscle soreness through the manipulation of inflammatory processes
Support in the healing of sports injuries such as bruises or sprains
Improved removal of metabolic waste products through optimized lymph flow (6, 7)

Athletic woman during training – Bromelain for regeneration after physical exertion

Bromelain's effects on joint problems

Research into the effects of bromelain on joint problems is particularly extensive. For example, clinical studies with osteoarthritis patients have investigated how the pineapple enzyme can work on various levels. Observed effects in scientific studies include:

Reduction of pain at rest and during movement
Reduction of stiffness, especially in the morning hours
Improvement of the mobility of affected joints
Possibility of reducing conventional painkillers (8)

Particularly interesting: In comparative studies, bromelain showed effects that were partly similar to those of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, but with significantly better tolerability (9).

Bromelain's effects on joint problems – natural support for knee and joint pain

Bromelain's effect on digestion

The gut is closely linked to the immune system – approximately 70 percent of all immune cells are located there. Bromelain's effects in the digestive tract extend beyond simply supporting protein digestion:

Inflammatory processes in the gut : Scientists are investigating how the pineapple enzyme can interact with inflammation in the intestinal mucosa. This could be relevant in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (10).
Intestinal barrier : The stability of the intestinal wall is important for healthy digestion and the immune system. Scientists are investigating whether bromelain can help support the protective function of the intestinal wall and maintain its natural barrier effect (11).

A woman's healthy gut – Bromelain's effect on supporting digestion and intestinal health

Bromelain vs. pineapple fruit: Where does the real effect lie?

A common misconception should be clarified: Even though pineapple is healthy and contains many valuable nutrients, consuming the fruit is not enough to ingest therapeutically relevant amounts of bromelain.

The reality is this: The bromelain concentration in the fruit is too low for any measurable health effect. Furthermore, the enzyme is partially inactivated during digestion before it can exert its effects. Therefore, concentrated preparations are more suitable for therapeutic purposes.

Good to know : The pineapple stem, which many people throw away, actually contains the highest concentration of the pineapple enzyme. You can eat small pieces of the stem or add them to smoothies. While the amount isn't sufficient for therapeutic purposes, it's an easy way to consume more bromelain in its natural form.

Fresh pineapple and pineapple juice in a glass – a natural source of bromelain with versatile effects.

Bromelain dosage: How to achieve the best effect

The optimal bromelain dosage depends on the intended use, your body weight, and the activity of the preparation. Enzyme activity is measured in GDU (Gelatin Dissolving Units) or FIP (Fédération Internationale Pharmaceutique).

GDU indicates how much protein the enzyme can break down and thus shows the actual potency. Two preparations with the same milligram amount can therefore have very different effects: A preparation with 500 mg and 1,200 GDU has a significantly better bromelain effect than one with 500 mg and 600 GDU. 1 FIP corresponds to approximately 1.5 GDU.

Some manufacturers use FIP instead of GDU. The conversion isn't exact, but as a guideline, 1 FIP is approximately 1.5 GDU. For optimal bromelain effectiveness, a value of at least 1,000 GDU/g has proven effective.

Bromelain capsules with pineapple powder – natural enzyme from pineapple to support digestion and regeneration

Buying bromelain: What you should look for in terms of quality

There are now numerous bromelain supplements available in various forms: capsules, tablets, or powder. You can find bromelain in pharmacies as well as from specialized online retailers. However, not all products live up to their promises; the quality can vary considerably.

Here's what you should pay attention to:

GDU value as a quality indicator : The enzyme activity should be clearly stated – at least 1,000 GDU/g is recommended.
Origin and standards : High-quality preparations come from controlled sources and are manufactured according to strict quality standards.
Minimize additives : Avoid products with unnecessary fillers, artificial flavors or colors.
Dosage form : Capsules better protect the sensitive enzyme from air, light and stomach acid, thus enabling more efficient absorption in the body compared to powder or tablets.

Our recommendation

5 tips to make the most of the effects of bromelain

The correct time to take it: 30–60 minutes before or 2–3 hours after a meal on an empty stomach – this ensures the enzyme is optimally absorbed into the bloodstream.
Be patient : Bromelain takes time to work optimally. Depending on the area of application, initial changes may appear after a few days or only after several weeks. Plan for at least 4–8 weeks of continuous use.
Combine a healthy lifestyle: The effects of bromelain are best achieved in combination with a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet, regular exercise, sufficient sleep and good hydration.
Use specifically during sports: Before or after intensive training to promote regeneration and performance.

Conclusion

The effects of bromelain are well-documented scientifically, making this pineapple enzyme a versatile natural substance. Its potential is particularly evident in the treatment of chronic inflammation. While pineapple is healthy and provides valuable nutrients, consuming the fruit alone is insufficient to obtain therapeutically relevant amounts. High-quality bromelain supplements are a better option in this case.

It's important to understand that bromelain can be a supportive component of a healthy lifestyle. You'll achieve the best results in combination with an anti-inflammatory diet, sufficient exercise, good sleep, and stress management.

Our expert

Robert Appuhn

Alternative medicine practitioner, nutritionist

Key areas:
Micronutrients | Orthomolecular therapy

What is bromelain and how does it work in the body?

Bromelain is a natural pineapple enzyme that can break down proteins into smaller building blocks. This property makes bromelain versatile – the enzyme supports natural bodily processes involved in digestion and regeneration, for example.

Is bromelain the same as the enzyme in pineapple?

Yes – bromelain is the most important enzyme in the pineapple plant. However, the largest concentration is found in the stem, not in the fruit. Pineapples are healthy, but contain too little active enzyme to achieve the same bromelain effect as concentrated supplements.

Can the effects of bromelain be achieved solely through pineapple?

Not to a significant degree. While pineapple is healthy and provides vitamin C, manganese, and phytochemicals, its enzyme content is insufficient to produce the well-known effects of bromelain. Furthermore, bromelain is partially inactivated when eaten or heated.

When is the best time to take it?

To optimally utilize the effects of bromelain, the enzyme is usually taken on an empty stomach – about 30–60 minutes before or 2–3 hours after meals. If bromelain is intended to support digestion, it is advisable to take it directly with meals.

Are there any known side effects of bromelain?

Bromelain is generally considered well-tolerated. In rare cases, sensitive individuals may experience stomach irritation or skin reactions. Anyone taking medication should consult their doctor or naturopath beforehand to rule out any potential interactions.

Where can you buy bromelain – and what should you look out for?

Bromelain is available both in pharmacies and online. When purchasing a product, quality and transparency are crucial for its effectiveness: a high GDU value (≥1,000 GDU/g), clear origin information, and tested purity are good indicators of quality.

For whom is bromelain particularly interesting?

People who value good digestion, regeneration, and general vitality can benefit from the effects of bromelain. The pineapple enzyme can also be a supportive component of a balanced lifestyle for active people and athletes.

References for further reading:

Alves Nobre T, Sousa AA de, Pereira IC, Carvalho Pedrosa-Santos ÁM, Lopes LdO, Debia N et al. Bromelain as a natural anti-inflammatory drug: a systematic review. Nat Prod Res 2025; 39(5):1258–71.
Agrawal P, Nikhade P, Patel A, Mankar N, Sedani S. Bromelain: A Potent Phytomedicine. Cureus 2022; 14(8):e27876.
Kumar V, Mangla B, Javed S, Ahsan W, Kumar P, Garg V et al. Bromelain: a review of its mechanisms, pharmacological effects and potential applications. Food Function 2023; 14(18):8101–28.
Chen CH, Hsia CC, Hu PA, Yeh CH, Chen CT, Peng CL, et al. Bromelain Ameliorates Atherosclerosis by Activating the TFEB-Mediated Autophagy and Antioxidant Pathways. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 12(1).
Ley CM, Tsiami A, Ni Q, Robinson N. A review of the use of bromelain in cardiovascular diseases. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao 2011; 9(7):702–10.
Olatunde K, Oweh OT, Adim CC. The role of bromelain as a natural remedy in reducing post-exercise muscle soreness. dujopas 2025; 10(4c):74–80.
Shing CM, Chong S, Driller MW, Fell JW. Acute protease supplementation effects on muscle damage and recovery across consecutive days of cycle racing. Eur J Sport Sci 2016; 16(2):206–12.
Pothacharoen P, Chaiwongsa R, Chanmee T, Insuan O, Wongwichai T, Janchai P et al. Bromelain Extract Exerts Antiarthritic Effects via Chondroprotection and the Suppression of TNF-α-Induced NF-κB and MAPK Signaling. Plants (Basel) 2021; 10(11).
Leelakanok N, Petchsomrit A, Janurai T, Saechan C, Sunsandee N. Efficacy and safety of bromelain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Health 2023; 29(3):479–503.
Kane S, Goldberg MJ. Use of bromelain for mild ulcerative colitis. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(8):680.
Onken JE, Greer PK, Calingaert B, Hale LP. Bromelain treatment decreases secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines by colon biopsies in vitro. Clinical immunology (Orlando, Fla.) 2008; 126(3):345–52.