Published August 19, 2024
Bromelain, a natural proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapples, has been recognized for its therapeutic properties since its discovery in the 1800s. Despite its large molecular size of around 33 kilodaltons, bromelain is remarkably absorbed intact from the intestinal tract, making it an interesting and potentially effective for a variety of conditions. Yet, scientists still don’t quite understand how it works in the human body. But work it does! It has anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits and exciting research research has also uncovered its potential in preventing atherosclerosis (aka plaque building up in heart arteries) and treating COVID-19. This places bromelain as a promising natural therapy.
Bromelain and the Prevention of Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaques within the arterial walls, is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. It is a complex process involving fat accumulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Bromelain has shown potential in addressing these factors, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.
For example recent studies have explored bromelain’s effects on atherosclerosis in animal models, particularly in genetically manipulated mice. These mice were made prone to hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis (poor mice!). In these studies, daily oral administration of bromelain over four weeks led to significant reductions in hyperlipidemia and aortic inflammation (meaning their cholesterol went down and the arteries were protected). All of this added up to less plaque formation!. (the dose equivalent would be about 200 mg of bromelain for us humans)
One of the key mechanisms through which bromelain exerts its anti-atherosclerotic effects is by enhancing the body’s antioxidant capacity. Bromelain has been shown to increase the expression of antioxidant proteins while simultaneously decreasing the expression of oxidases, – these are enzymes responsible for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The less ROS the better when it comes to the heart arteries . This reduction in oxidative stress is crucial. Too much ROS the LDL cholesterol (ie “bad one”) gets even worse as it oxidizes, then goes on to make atherosclerotic plaques.
Additionally, bromelain promotes the breakdown of plaque building molecules and ramps up something called autophagy. Autophagy literally means “self eating” and is a critical process that helps clear damaged cells and reduce fat accumulation in arteries. It is essential for maintaining artery health. By increasing autophagy and reducing lipid accumulation, bromelain helps slow down the progression of atherosclerosis in these animal models.
Furthermore, bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties that play a significant role in its ability to prevent plaque buildup. It also has been reported to help with joint pain and sinus infections as both of these are inflammatory type conditions too!
Overall, These findings suggest that bromelain could be a valuable natural therapy in preventing atherosclerosis by targeting the underlying mechanisms of lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation (a triple play) While further research is needed to fully understand its effects in human cardiovascular health, the evidence so far is promising.
Bromelain in the Fight Against COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to global health, leading to an urgent search for effective treatments. Bromelain has emerged as a potential therapeutic agent against COVID-19 due to its unique ability to interfere with the virus’s entry and replication processes in host cells.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, gains entry into human cells by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, which is present in various organs, including the lungs, heart, and intestines. This binding is facilitated by the viral spike protein, which requires activation by host (ie human) proteases. Bromelain, with its cysteine protease activity, has been shown to target and degrade these other proteases and the spike protein itself! This thereby inhibits the virus’s ability to infect cells!
Research has demonstrated that bromelain can reduce the expression of key proteins involved in viral entry, in cell models. Additionally, bromelain has been found to disrupt the structural integrity of the spike protein, preventing the virus from effectively binding to and entering host cells. These findings suggest that bromelain could be a valuable tool in preventing and treating COVID-19, particularly when combined with other compounds like acetylcysteine.
Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects
One of the most dangerous aspects of COVID-19 is the hyper-inflammatory response known as the “cytokine storm,” which can lead to severe respiratory distress and organ failure. Bromelain’s anti-inflammatory properties which I previously mentioned, make it a potential candidate for mitigating these severe immune reactions.
Moreover, bromelain’s ability to prevent blood clots is particularly relevant in COVID-19, where coagulation disorders are common. By promoting fibrinolysis (breakdown of clots) and reducing platelet aggregation, bromelain may help prevent the thrombotic complications that often accompany severe cases of the disease.
Conclusion
Bromelain’s diverse therapeutic properties, from preventing atherosclerosis to its potential role in combating COVID-19, make it a compound of great interest in modern medicine. It’s ability to modulate inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit viral entry positions bromelain as a promising natural therapy that could complement existing treatments for both atherosclerosis and COVID-19. As research continues, bromelain may become an integral part of therapeutic strategies aimed at improving health outcomes in these challenging areas.
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