A New Use for Bromelain?

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A New Use for Bromelain? In this Article:

What the Study Showed
In a study of piglets that may have implications for humans, bromelain (an enzyme extracted from pineapple stems) decreased the diarrhea and dehydration associated with infection from Escherichia coli bacteria, the most common cause of traveler's diarrhea.

How It Was Done
Scientists in Australia took 93 piglets and divided them into three groups. Two groups were treated with either a high or a low oral dose of bromelain; the third did not receive bromelain. All groups were then infected with E. coli. All of the piglets given no bromelain came down with severe diarrhea. But only 40% of those given high doses and 50% of the low-dose group developed diarrhea. The bromelain-treated piglets also suffered less severe symptoms and gained more weight than the untreated group; no adverse effects were observed. Researchers say the enzyme attaches to the same receptors on the intestinal wall as E. coli, thwarting the bacteria's ability to cause diarrhea.

Why It's Important
Until now, bromelain has been used only as an inflammation fighter and potential pain reducer. But these new findings suggest a vastly different beneficial use. According to the researchers, "the data presented in this study represent a simple approach to prevent E. coli infection."

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