Bromelain is a group of protein-digesting enzymes found in pineapple stem and fruit. But does bromelain help with digestion? Evidence that taking it by mouth improves digestion or nutrient absorption is lacking. That means there is no evidence-based “best” supplement for this purpose; if you are considering one, focus on clear labeling and safety rather than claims of proven digestive benefits.
Does bromelain help with digestion?
It has not been established that oral bromelain improves digestion. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes that, although people sometimes take it to help digestion and absorption, studies supporting those uses are lacking. Claims that supplements relieve bloating, improve nutrient absorption, or treat a digestive disorder should therefore not be presented as proven benefits.
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Bromelain is a group of enzymes that break down proteins, and it occurs in pineapple stem and fruit. Its ability to digest protein helps explain the interest in it, but that fact alone does not show that a supplement improves digestion in people.
What does research on oral bromelain suggest?
Human research on oral bromelain is limited. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says only a small number of studies have examined it for sinus symptoms or pain and swelling after wisdom-tooth extraction. Some studies suggest it might help with some symptoms after wisdom-tooth surgery, but NCCIH says there is not enough high-quality research to recommend oral bromelain for sinusitis. Evidence for other conditions is very limited or comes from products containing multiple ingredients, so bromelain’s independent effect is unclear. NCCIH’s bromelain overview summarizes these limits.
#1 Best Overall
- NATURAL PROTEOLYTIC ENZYME*/2400 GDU/g - 500 mg: Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from the stem of the pineapple plant that has protein-digesting properties.* When taken with food, bromelain can help to support healthy digestion; when taken between meals, it may help to support joint comfort and may help to relieve temporary soreness that is associated with muscle overuse.*
- SUPPORTS HEALTHY DIGESTION*/JOINT COMFORT*: Bromelain is designed by nature to support proper gastrointestinal function and may also help to promote the comfort of muscles and joints.* Take 1 capsule with or between meals.
- CLASSIFICATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS: Soy Free, Vegan/Vegetarian, Nut Free, Made without Gluten, Dairy Free, Egg Free, Keto Friendly
- GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation).
- Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968
There is also a distinct medical use that should not be confused with supplements: NCCIH reports that the FDA approved a topical bromelain-containing drug in 2022 for debridement of severe burns in adults. That prescription treatment does not establish that oral bromelain treats burns or improves digestion.
What should I look for in a bromelain supplement?
No product can be identified as “best for digestion” from the available evidence. If you still choose to compare supplements, use the label to understand what is being sold—not as proof that it works or is independently verified.
Rank #2
- BROMELAIN: Digestive enzymes found naturally in the juice and stems of the Pineapple Plant
- FROM PINEAPPLE: Features 1,700 mg of Bromelain per serving in convenient quick release capsules
- ROOTED IN WELLNESS: Carlyle provides premium, honest supplements in your pursuit to healthy living
- CARLYLE MANUFACTURERS: Laboratory Tested, Trusted Ingredients, Superior Quality, 100% Guaranteed!
- NATURALLY FREE OF: Gluten, Wheat, Yeast, Milk, Lactose, Artificial Flavor, Preservatives & Non-GMO
- Amount and enzyme activity: Look for the labeled bromelain amount and any activity measure, and compare like with like. An NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database record for one bromelain-only product lists 500 mg per capsule and enzyme activity of 2400 GDU/g. Those are values on an example label, not a recommended dose, an efficacy threshold, or an endorsement.
- Ingredients: Check whether bromelain is the only active ingredient or part of a blend, and review other ingredients and allergens.
- Directions and cautions: Read serving directions, warnings, and any age or health-related cautions. Do not assume that a larger labeled amount is more effective.
- Quality information: Look for transparent ingredient and activity labeling and credible information about manufacturing and quality controls. A marketing claim or database entry by itself does not prove a product’s contents, quality, or effectiveness.
In the United States, dietary supplements are not reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before they are marketed. Manufacturers and distributors are responsible for evaluating safety and ensuring labeling meets requirements. NCCIH also cautions that store-bought or online products may differ from those used in studies, and label contents may not always match what is in the product. See NCCIH’s overview of dietary and herbal supplements and its guidance on using dietary supplements wisely.
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NCCIH says oral bromelain seems generally well tolerated, but reported side effects include stomach upset and diarrhea. Allergic reactions have also been reported. If you have a known or suspected pineapple allergy, ask a health care professional before using a bromelain supplement.
Rank #3
- Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from the stem of the pineapple plant that has protein-digesting properties*
- When taken with food, bromelain can help to support healthy digestion; when taken between meals, it may help to support joint comfort and may help to relieve temporary soreness that is associated with muscle overuse*
- Bromelain is designed by nature to support proper gastrointestinal function and may also help to promote the comfort of muscles and joints*
- Take 1 capsule 1 to 2 times daily, with or between meals
- Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968.
Talk with a health care provider or pharmacist before taking bromelain if you use medicines. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes that bromelain may increase blood and urine levels of tetracycline antibiotics. It also describes preclinical evidence suggesting a possible increased bleeding risk with anticoagulants; how clinically relevant that risk is remains uncertain. These are reasons to get medication-specific advice, not proof that an interaction will occur for everyone. NCCIH says little is known about bromelain use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so seek professional advice in those circumstances as well.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- SUPPORTS HEALTHY DIGESTION*: NOW Super Enzymes is a comprehensive blend of enzymes that supports healthy digestion.* Take one capsule with a meal
- BREAKS DOWN FATS, CARBS, AND PROTEINS*/OPTIMIZES NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY*: Formulated with bromelain, ox bile, pancreatin and papain, Super Enzymes helps to optimize the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and protein*
- CERTIFICATIONS/CLASSIFICATIONS: Soy Free, Made without Gluten, Keto Friendly
- GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation)
- Founded in 1968 by Elwood Richard, NOW is one of the largest independent, family- and employee-owned manufacturers of natural products
Rank #4
- SUPPORTS HEALTHY DIGESTION*: NOW Super Enzymes is a comprehensive blend of enzymes that supports healthy digestion.* Take one capsule with a meal
- BREAKS DOWN FATS, CARBS, AND PROTEINS*/OPTIMIZES NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY*: Formulated with bromelain, ox bile, pancreatin and papain, Super Enzymes helps to optimize the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and protein*
- CERTIFICATIONS/CLASSIFICATIONS: Soy Free, Made without Gluten, Keto Friendly
- GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation)
- Founded in 1968 by Elwood Richard, NOW is one of the largest independent, family- and employee-owned manufacturers of natural products
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