Most tropical fruits such as pineapples, mango, papaya, and kiwi contain proteolytic enzymes, enzymes which break down protein and are thought to have certain medicinal properties. Pineapples have been used as an anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, diuretic, and also to induce labor. Bromelain, a type of proteolytic enzyme found in pineapples, may help to soften the cervix which could explain how it helps to bring on labor. Since it is also used as a digestive aid, it may stimulate the bowels to move, which could bring on contractions as well.
Even if pineapples don’t help to bring on labor, they may help tone and ripen your cervix, making your body more favorable to start labor. It is important to note that bromelain is found in fresh pineapples, especially the core. The canning process destroys most of the bromelain in pineapples so if you want to try eating pineapples to jump start your labor, make sure that they are fresh pineapples.
Of course you can eat fresh sliced pineapples but if you want to try some other tasty treats to help induce labor, try our pineapple mango smoothie recipe. Make sure you use fresh ingredients and add some of the pineapple core to your smoothie.
Pineapple Mango Smoothie Recipe to Induce Labor
Ingredients:
1 cup of fresh chopped pineapples, with pineapple core
1 cup of chopped mangos
1 cup of orange juice
½ cup of vanilla yogurt
Ice
Directions:
Blend pineapples, mangos, juice and yogurt in blender. Add ice and blend until desired consistency.
Optional: Add shredded coconut, bananas or other fresh fruit.