Many of us experience a unique sensation when eating pineapple — in addition to the sweet and mildly sour taste, there is also a tingling, burning feeling on the tongue.
This is why you experience a burning sensation on your tongue when eating pineapple
Pineapple (also known as ‘thơm’ or ‘khóm’) is a popular fruit for desserts and snacks. Try taking a bite of pineapple, but don’t chew it right away — let it sit on your tongue and feel the tingling sensation that gradually intensifies, leading to discomfort in your mouth, and even bleeding on your lips, tongue, or cheeks.
These symptoms occur immediately after eating and usually subside on their own without the need for medication or other treatments.
Causes of tongue burning when eating pineapple
Many people believe that the burning sensation is caused by the acids in pineapple. However, the real reason is that pineapple contains bromelain — a mix of digestive enzymes with many benefits in treating inflammation. Bromelain enzymes are concentrated in the core and skin of the pineapple. While beneficial for health, when it comes into contact with sensitive skin and the surrounding areas of the mouth, it breaks down proteins, causing a painful sensation.
If you eat too much pineapple, your mouth may feel sore, and your tongue may feel as though it has been rubbed with sandpaper. Fortunately, this does not result in serious consequences, as the tissues in our mouths heal faster than other parts of the body.
The protein-digesting ability of bromelain is so potent that a few years ago, there were rumors that one could erase fingerprints by rubbing their fingers on a pineapple. Some even claimed that those who peel pineapples daily would gradually lose their fingerprints.
In explanation, those spreading the rumor suggested that bromelain would digest the outer layer of skin cells. However, scientists believe this rumor is unrealistic. Rubbing your fingers on pineapple may damage your skin, temporarily removing your fingerprints. Afterward, the injured skin would regenerate, and the fingerprints would return to normal.
Eating pineapple causes a burning sensation due to bromelain in the fruit.
Methods to eat pineapple while avoiding allergic reactions
Direct consumption method (eating raw)
After peeling the pineapple, cut it into small pieces and soak them in a light saltwater solution. This will inhibit the protein-digesting enzymes, preventing tongue irritation. Additionally, the saltwater helps soothe the mucous membranes of the mouth and tongue, making the pineapple taste sweeter and more fragrant. Soaking for about 10 minutes is sufficient.
Stir-frying, cooking
Peel, remove the eyes, and cut the pineapple deeply, then rinse it with light saltwater. When stir-frying or cooking, the allergenic properties of pineapple are eliminated due to the heat. This method is highly recommended for children, the elderly, and those who are sensitive or prone to food allergies.
Important considerations when eating pineapple:
- Choose fresh pineapples that are intact; do not eat damaged ones.
- When peeling, make sure to remove all the skin and cut deeply to eliminate all the eyes.
- Wash the pineapple thoroughly with saltwater before eating.
- Individuals with bleeding disorders or at risk of bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds, dengue fever, large wounds, or women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding should avoid eating pineapple.
- Do not eat fresh pineapple on an empty stomach, as the organic acids and bromelain can irritate the stomach and intestines, causing nausea and discomfort.
- Choose pineapples that have a distinct sweet smell and a yellow color. If the fruit still has green on the rind, turn it upside down and leave it for a few days until it turns yellow or orange.
Eating too much pineapple can lead to a burning sensation on the tongue, so it is advisable not to consume excessive amounts at once to prevent mouth tingling and reduce the risk of increased stomach acid.
