Evidence supporting the use of: Bromelain
For the health condition: Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bromelain, an enzyme extract derived from pineapples, has been investigated for its potential to reduce side effects associated with chemotherapy, such as mucositis, inflammation, and immune suppression. Scientific interest centers on bromelain’s anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and mucolytic properties, as well as its ability to modulate cytokine production and reduce oxidative stress. Some preclinical studies have indicated that bromelain can decrease inflammation and promote tissue healing, which could theoretically mitigate some chemotherapy-induced side effects. Additionally, a few small-scale human studies and case reports suggest possible benefits, such as improved oral mucositis outcomes and enhanced quality of life for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

However, the overall evidence remains limited and of low quality. Most clinical trials to date have small sample sizes, are not placebo-controlled, or focus on combination therapies where bromelain is not the sole intervention. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that while bromelain shows promise, there is insufficient robust clinical data to firmly recommend its use for managing chemotherapy side effects. Furthermore, concerns remain about interactions between bromelain and chemotherapeutic drugs, as well as the potential for increased bleeding risk due to its antiplatelet activity. Thus, while there is some scientific investigation into bromelain’s supportive role during chemotherapy, current evidence is preliminary and does not warrant strong recommendations for routine use. Patients should consult their oncologist before considering bromelain supplementation.

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aloe vera
alpha-glycosyl isoquercitrin
alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
amino acids
anthocyanins
astaxanthin
astragalus
beta caryophyllene
bifidobacterium bifidum
bifidobacterium breve
bifidobacterium infantis
bifidobacterium lactis
bifidobacterium longum
black cumin
black currant
blueberry
branched-chain amino acids
bromelain
cannabis sativa oil
chamomile
chlorella
coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
colostrum
turmeric
curcumin
cyclodextrin
d-alpha tocopherol
fish oil
ginger
grape
green tea
hemp oil
l-alanyl-l-glutamine
l-carnosine
l-cysteine
l-glutamine
l-glutathione
l-glycine
l-taurine
lactobacillus acidophilus
lactobacillus brevis
lactobacillus bulgaricus
lactobacillus lactis
lactoferrin
lentinula edodes mycelia
licorice root
lion's mane
luteolin
marine lipid
matcha
melatonin
milk thistle
n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
pectin
phytocannabinoids
pomegranate
protein
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
quercetin
reishi mushroom
resveratrol
saccharomyces boulardii
selenium
shiitake mushroom
spirulina
streptococcus thermophilus
tributyrin
turkey tail mushroom
vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin E
whey protein
zinc
coix
herbal blend (proprietary)
soy isoflavones
3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid
Alpha Glucans
Antrodia camphorata
AHCC
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha lactalbumin
Acemannan
Alkylglycerols
Bifidobacterium
Baikal Skullcap
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
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Bifidobacterium animalis
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BCAA
benzyl isothiocyanate
Caryophyllene
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