Bromelain And Food
Supplements are probably best absorbed when taken with food, at mealtimes. But there are exceptions to every rule. Last week in the e-Alert "Pain Takes a Holiday" I told you about bromelain, a digestive enzyme found in pineapple that aids digestion and also acts as a natural anti-inflammatory that can safely ease arthritis pain and swelling. In response to that e-Alert, I received an e-mail from HSI Panelist Dr. Richard Cohan, D.D.S., M.B.A., who shared some important information about when to take bromelain, and why. Dr. Cohan writes, "I believe that it is important that you draw the distinction between bromelain's activity as a digestive aid when consumed with a meal, and its effectiveness as a pain modulator when consumed before a meal or three hours thereafter (depending how much fat was consumed and therefore how long digestive juices are present in the stomach). It apparently has no effect on pain when consumed with a meal." This is a great tip for anyone who wants to try bromelain for arthritis, and I thank Dr. Cohan for passing it along. To Your Good Health, Jenny Thompson
Health Sciences Institute
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