Bromelain? Anti-inflammatory?

[Dochaz]

I'm very wary of claims that dietary supplements are a substitute for healthy eating. However, a close friend who has battled and survived 2 bouts of cancer (bowel and breast) has suggested bromelain (from pineapple stems) as an anti-inflammatory. She has, as she says, ruled nothing out, including some more esoteric treatments, and she's doing well (mind over matter?) My very rational mind-set is somewhat sceptical. Just wondering if anyone has any experience of bromelain.

[SnazzyD]

I did Bromelain and others in a panic phase after cancer treatments. It was costly and I decided to stop because I decided my taking them was fear based bargaining and a slippery slope but that was for me. I had no knowing what was helping, what wasn’t and what might be fanning flames in my unique body with its unique disease. My gut wasn’t terribly enamoured with my regime either. Without measurable levels and results we have no idea, especially if we are taking various things and taking other measures on top of supplements. I was given 2 years back in 2005 so who knows why I’m still here. With GCA I supplemented according to what Pred depleted and took a more nuts and bolts approach and leave the rest to food.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It has been discussed before - if you use the search box at the top right for bromelain and then filter for PMRGCAuk only you should get 6 links - and I don't think any of them really support it.

[piglette]

I think I would prefer to eat pineapple.

[Bcol in reply to piglette]

Most definitely. I need to add one to my next shopping list. I could also pretend I was sitting on a carribbean beach with a suitable drink!!!🍍🍍

[SnazzyD in reply to Bcol]

That’s a thought….What’s the level of bromelaine in Piña colada, anyone?

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to SnazzyD]

More if the garnish is a wedge of pineapple instead of a cherry ...

[Dochaz in reply to PMRpro]

I fear the active substance is to be found in the stem, not the actual fruit. Not much good sticking that on the side of the glass!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Dochaz]

You're no fun!

[piglette in reply to Bcol]

Ah a pina colada, now you are talking!

[Dochaz]

So, you all support healthy eating rather than supplements which is what I feel too. Thanks for your input 🌼

[agingfeminist]

healthy eating can be very time consuming (planning and preparing it) . I would much prefer a couple of supplements. BUT I'm afraid the evidence isn't there (vit D and K2 are worth taking and anything for a medically identified deficiency) . And what is a healthy diet? Prof Tim Spector suggests 30 different foods a week (not based on any science but a good way to make sure you are getting something of everything) - and cut the carbs while on pred.