As people age, systemic inflammation can inflict degenerative effects throughout the body.1-5 A primary cause of this destructive cascade is the production of cell-signaling chemicals known as inflammatory cytokines. Along with these dangerous cytokines, imbalances of hormone-like messengers called prostaglandins and leukotrienes also contribute to inflammatory processes.6-8

Bromelain, a mixture of proteases derived from the stem of the pineapple, has been used by Europeans to ease inflammation for many years. Bromelain’s fluid-regulating properties may result from its ability to effectively reduce inflammatory cytokine production, decrease neutrophil migration to sites of acute inflammation and support the specific removal of a number of cell surface inflammatory molecules. Research also shows that bromelain may help support healthy blood viscosity and blood platelet aggregation.9,10 A specially-coated bromelain formulation has been well-studied for its ability to soothe minor injuries such as sprains11 and for speeding recovery time after surgery.12 In fact, Bromelain has been used in Germany since 1993 for easing sinus and nasal inflammation after surgery.

Specially-coated bromelain-based formulations may significantly help inflammatory reactions in the joints. Results from research on subjects with discomfort in the knee area has demonstrated that enteric-coated bromelain formulations were at least as effective as other approaches in relieving joint tenderness and swelling and were better tolerated.13-15 One study even found that bromelain is more effective than other methods for maintaining joint function at rest (41% for bromelain versus 23% for other methods).15

Another study showed that specially-coated bromelain yielded an overall improvement in general well-being, along with improvement in stiffness and physical function.14

Bromelain has to be enteric-coated so that it will not be used as a digestive enzyme if activated in the stomach. Enteric-coated bromelain tablets pass into the small intestine where they are absorbed into the bloodstream to provide systemic benefits.