Millions Shocked To Discover The Reason Pineapple Makes Their Mouth Tingle
Pineapples have been fighting back when we eat them
Nothing is more nutrient-dense than fruits and vegetables, which are great sources of folic acid, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, and E. Although some fruits and vegetables have more fiber than others, most have enough to keep you full and improve intestinal health.
We all have one thing in common, regardless of whether we're eating pineapple as a snack to meet our daily requirements, because we enjoy the flavor, or for other reasons: it leaves our mouths tingling.
We frequently experience this strange tingling sensation in our mouths and on our tongues after eating tropical fruit. After always wondering why, people have been startled to learn the cause of this peculiar tingling.
In a TikTok video, SF Microscopy ultimately provides an answer for this peculiar pineapple prickle. The science page dissected tiny portions of the food and examined them under a microscope to demonstrate the logic to its followers.
So why does eating pineapple cause your tongue to tingle? The voiceover goes on to explain why fruits appear to operate aggressively, saying:
"It's because we are getting stabbed by thousands of tiny needles called raphides. These crystals of calcium oxalate poke holes in your cell membranes, causing irritation!"
The methodology behind pineapple "needles"
Getty Stock ImagesThe content creator subsequently revealed that the "microcosmos" within the pineapple chunks resembles "little needles" that puncture your mouth and leave you with an odd, irritated feeling on your tongue after eating them. According to McGill University, these needles are known as "raphides" and contain insoluble crystals composed of calcium oxalate.
Understanding Pineapple's Effects
Dr. Andrew Weil, an integrative medicine expert, explains that the tingling sensation caused by pineapple is due to the presence of bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down proteins. This can lead to a temporary sensation of soreness in the mouth, especially in sensitive individuals.
He suggests that cooking pineapple or pairing it with dairy products can help neutralize its enzymatic effects. In his practice, he often advises his patients to explore different ways to consume fruits to minimize discomfort while still enjoying their health benefits.
Most of us are unaware that pineapples have been fighting back when we eat them
TikTok/@sf_microscopyAccording to a theory concerning raphides and their defense mechanisms against herbivores, if the plant sustains damage, sap or saliva will cause the needles to be expelled. These needles can subsequently prick the lining of the oral cavity of the "predators," or humans, and create irritation.
After receiving an astounding 35.9 million views, the tell-all video went viral, demonstrating that people everywhere were eager to share their reactions to the strange phenomenon.
A TikTok user declared they would "never eat pineapple again" after becoming extremely alarmed by the revelation. Some, however, were not deterred in the slightest by the tropical fruit stuffed with needles: "How masochistic of me, damn."
And here is the pineapple video that went viral
A third user laughed, "You know the fruits are good when they start fighting back." Other people quickly joined in, sharing their own powerful pineapple-related combat experiences, such as, "It always feels so raw afterward; this makes so much sense."
"Thank you... I never knew tropical fruit had defense mechanisms... very interesting," said another, praising the science. "My mouth is sore as hell after going crazy on those pineapples," revealed a fifth user, while a sixth added: "Mine sometimes bleeds."
Yes, we now understand better, but does that mean people will stay away from pineapples? I don't think so!
Nutritionists often highlight the importance of moderation. Consuming pineapple in smaller portions can allow individuals to enjoy its unique flavor without overwhelming their palate. Dr. Mark Hyman, a functional medicine expert, emphasizes that while pineapple is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it's crucial to balance fruit intake with other food groups.
For those sensitive to pineapple, he recommends incorporating it into smoothies or salads where it can be complemented by other ingredients, thus reducing the impact of bromelain while still gaining nutritional benefits.
Solutions & Coping Strategies
Understanding the complexity of fruits like pineapple can enhance our dietary choices. Nutritionists like Dr. Mark Hyman remind us that every fruit has its unique properties that can affect our health and enjoyment. By being mindful of portion sizes and preparation methods, we can savor the deliciousness of pineapple without discomfort.
Moreover, integrating fruits in a balanced diet, as highlighted by experts, leads to better health outcomes. It's essential to listen to our bodies and adjust our consumption accordingly for an optimal culinary experience.
