By Linda Woolven and Ted Snider, The Natural Path
Pharmaceutical treatments for ulcerative colitis have a range of side effects that is considerable. That has led to a search for natural alternatives. That search has led to a surprisingly simple new candidate.
Along with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme found in pineapple, is a powerful anti-inflammatory. So, it may be surprising that there have been no studies of bromelain on inflammatory bowel disease. Until now.
This 8-week, triple-blind study gave either a placebo or bromelain at a dose of 500 GDU twice a day to 62 people with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis.
The bromelain group had significantly greater improvement on the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI) score, indicating significantly decreased severity of disease.
This study suggests that bromelain may be a safe, simple, natural way of helping to improve ulcerative colitis.
Source
Sci Rep. 2025 Nov 28;15:42799.
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Bromelain from several brands:
- Bromelain: Bluebonnet Super Bromelain 500 mg, NOW Foods Bromelain 500 mg and Life Extension Bromelain 500 mg (the enzyme from pineapple)
Browse the full digestive health collection, or stop by the store at 2401 PGA Blvd in Palm Beach Gardens and we'll help you compare labels. Questions? Call (561) 626-4377.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.