Bromelain
A pineapple-derived enzyme with two distinct uses: taken with food it digests protein; taken between meals it reduces inflammation, swelling, and bruising.
Strong for post-surgical swelling and bruising (multiple RCTs). Moderate for chronic sinusitis, knee osteoarthritis pain, and aiding absorption of other compounds (quercetin, antibiotics). Effects: hours-to-days for swelling; 4–8 weeks for chronic conditions.
Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes from pineapple stems. It has two completely different applications depending on timing. With food, it's a digestive aid — breaks down protein, eases bloating after big meals. On an empty stomach, it's absorbed systemically and acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-edema agent — most evidence is for post-surgical bruising and swelling, sinusitis, and joint pain. The German Commission E approves it for post-surgical inflammation. Often paired with quercetin (which it improves absorption of) and curcumin in joint-support formulas.
- Form
- Bromelain measured in GDU (Gelatin Digesting Units) or MCU (Milk Clotting Units) — potency varies, GDU is the more meaningful measure. Look for ~2,400 GDU/g or higher.
- Dose
- 200–500 mg (~2,400 GDU/g) 2–3x daily. Up to 1,000 mg for acute use (post-injury, sinusitis).
- Timing
- With food for digestive use. Empty stomach (between meals) for systemic anti-inflammatory effect — the timing changes the action.
- Schedule
- Daily, or pulsed for acute use (5–14 days).
- Side effects
- GI upset, nausea, diarrhea at high doses. Mild allergic reactions (pineapple allergy). Increased menstrual flow in some.
- Interactions
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets — additive mild blood-thinning. Antibiotics (especially amoxicillin, tetracyclines) — bromelain increases their blood levels (sometimes useful, sometimes not). Sedatives — possible mild additive effect.
- Contraindications
- Pineapple allergy. Bleeding disorders. Pre-surgery (stop 7–14 days before). Active peptic ulcer. Pregnancy.
- Lab markers
- Not standard. Symptomatic / functional tracking.
- Food sources
- Fresh pineapple (especially the core — highest concentration). Cooking and canning destroy bromelain. Eating fresh pineapple delivers a small dose; therapeutic effect requires extract.
Pairs with
Quercetin (bromelain improves quercetin absorption — classic pairing). Curcumin, boswellia (joint-pain combos). Trypsin and chymotrypsin (other proteolytic enzymes — synergistic systemic enzyme blends).
Where to buy
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within Enzymes