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Pineapple and the Cretan Bowl Diet…The Pineapple is just a vibrant tropical flavour that seems to taste of sunshine! Delicious. Pineapple is an excellent source of Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is important in the production of energy and assists cells in converting carbohydrates into energy. It is also essential for the functioning of the heart, muscles, and nervous system. Shortage of thiamine can cause weakness and fatigue. Vitamin B6 is important in creating antibodies in the immune system. It helps maintain normal nerve function and acts in the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B6 is also needed for the chemical reactions of proteins. The higher the protein intake, the more need there is for vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 deficiency in the diet can cause dizziness, nausea, confusion, irritability and convulsions. 
Vitamin C is an important vitamin in that it plays a significant role as an antioxidant, thereby protecting body tissue from the damage of oxidation. Antioxidants act to protect your cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of the body’s metabolism. Free radicals can cause cell damage that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Pineapple also contains Copper and Manganese. Copper is needed for the absorption, storage and metabolism of iron and the formation of red blood cells. It also helps supply oxygen to the body. Manganese functions in enzyme reactions concerning blood sugar, metabolism, and thyroid hormone function.
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