Bromelain for Sports & Fitness

What is it?

Bromelain, derived from the pineapple plant, is one of a group of proteolytic enzymes (enzymes capable of digesting protein).

Where is it found?

Bromelain is found mostly in the stems of pineapples and is available as a dietary supplement.

Why do athletes use it?*

Some athletes say that bromelain

helps to reduce pain associated with sports injuries, such as sprains and strains.

What do the advocates say?*

Bromelain is most effective for injuries in which there is a congestion of blood or heavy bruising. Because it is a protein digestive agent, bromelain digests trapped blood byproducts. It is more effective for sprains and strains than it is for joint pain.

When using bromelain, continue to take it until the swelling and blood stagnation is gone; this can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

How much is usually taken by athletes?

Typically, 2 to 4 tablets or capsules are taken several times per day. Other uses of bromelain for sports and fitness have not been studied.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Bromelain is generally safe and free of side effects when taken in moderate amounts. However, one preliminary report indicates increased heart rate with the use of bromelain.¹ In addition, some people are allergic to bromelain. One woman reportedly developed a hives and severe swelling after taking bromelain, even though she had tolerated bromelain on two other occasions previously.² Because bromelain acts as a blood thinner and little is known about how bromelain interacts with blood-thinning drugs, people should avoid combining such drugs with bromelain in order to reduce the theoretical risk of excessive bleeding.

Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with bromelain. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.

Resources

See a list of books, periodicals, and other resources for this and related topics.

*Athletes and fitness advocates may claim benefits for bromelain based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles on bromelain. For more complete and detailed information, including references and safety information, see Bromelain as a nutritional supplement.

References
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1. Gutfreund AE, Taussig SJ, Morris AK. Effect of oral bromelain on blood pressure and heart rate of hypertensive patients. Hawaii Med J 1978;37:143–6.

2. Nettis E, Napoli G, Ferrannini A, Tursi A. IgE-mediated allergy to bromelain. Allergy 2001;56:257–8.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.