Why Pineapple Burns Your Tongue? How To Prevent It?

Pineapple can offer several benefits that can help you stay fit and healthy. The fruit is a powerful source of vitamin C, bromelain, manganese, and fibre. Regular consumption of pineapple boosts immune health, improves digestion as a result of protein breakdown, brings down inflammation, enhances bone health, regulates blood pressure, and boosts heart health. Regular consumption will boost healthy eating habits as the fruit is an ideal source of sustainable nutrition.

The fruit is loaded with antioxidant that can offer protection from chronic diseases, benefits skin health, and enhances recovery post workout or surgery. However, the delicious fruit often leaves your tongue burned along with an unpleasant feeling on roof of mouth for few minutes. Let us find out below:

Why Pineapple Burns Your Tongue?

When you start eating pineapple, you may find it hard to resist yourself and end up consuming more than planned due to its stunning taste. However, it may cause some discomfort and feeling of burned on the tongue and roof of the mouth. It occurs due to the presence of a particular enzyme known as bromelain. Bromelain performs the function of breaking down proteins and it starts breaking down in your mouth lining a little bit that can lead to irritation or burning sensation, according to report featured in Everyday Health. Fortunately, the presence of strong acid in the stomach can break down bromelain and this is the reason why the fruit does not lead to similar irritation in your digestive system.  

The other factor responsible for burning tongue is the acidic nature of the fruit. The combination of bromelain and acidic nature of pineapple can cause the burning and stinging sensation. Some people have sensitive tongue and the sensation will be even higher for them. Bromelain might also lead to acid burn sensation after consumption of the fruit but it is a beneficial substance. Bromelain helps in alleviating nasal inflammation.

How to Prevent Pineapple Burns?

• You may try to cut the core of the pineapple as this is the area that contains the highest bromelain. It will be an effective way to reduce the burning sensation.

• You may soak the fruit in chilled salty for water for a couple of minutes to reduce bromelain and acidity. Remove the excess salt while consuming.

• You can pair the fruit with dairy products to alleviate the effect of burning sensation. As dairy products contain protein, it reacts with bromelain and bring down the impact of burning sensation.

• It is ideal to buy ripe pineapple as raw pineapple will be more acidic in nature with higher bromelain content.

• The impact of bromelain can be reduced by simply cooking, baking and grilling pineapple. 

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.