Bromelain
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Bromelain. Pineapple proteolytic enzyme with anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic effects.
How it works. Proteolytic enzyme with systemic effects when taken between meals.
What the research supports. 2 graded claims. Strongest: Reduces post-surgical edema and bruising (moderate).
How much to take. Typical dose: 500–2000 mg between meals (anti-inflammatory).
Side effects and interactions. 2 medication interactions listed. Serious: Bleeding.
Stacking. Pairs well with A high-quality multivitamin, Omega-3 (EPA/DHA).
Common forms. Available as Bromelain GDU/MCU standardized.
Key studies. 9 studies cited. The strongest are listed with links to PubMed.
Community. Experiences from people who have tried Bromelain. Anecdotes are not medical advice.
Bromelain. Pineapple proteolytic enzyme with anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic effects.
What it is
Pineapple proteolytic enzyme with anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic effects.
Food sources
Goals
How it works
Proteolytic enzyme with systemic effects when taken between meals.
Pathways
- Fibrinolysis
- Anti-inflammatory
Effects
- ↓Inflammation/edema decreases
What the research supports
Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.
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Side effects & interactions
Common side effects
- GI upset
Serious
- Bleeding
Medication interactions
Fibrinolytic.
Increases absorption.
Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.
Combines with
Pairs well
- A high-quality multivitaminCovers micronutrient cofactors that support most supplement pathways.
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Foundational anti-inflammatory support that complements most regimens.
Common forms
- Bromelain GDU/MCU standardized
Key studies
9 studies cited in total.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Bromelain and "Reduces post-surgical edema and bruising". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Bromelain and "Reduces sinusitis symptoms". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Bromelain and "randomized controlled trial". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Discussion
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