ITCHY TONGUE EATING PINEAPPLE, WHY HAPPEN ?

Itchy tongue after eating several slices of pineapple—perhaps not many people know the cause. This itching sensation

sofyanto

November 07, 2025

Causes of an Itchy Tongue

Our bodies actually have various enzymes to break down food. However, fruits like pineapple also contain a natural enzyme that can react with oral tissues. This enzyme is called bromelain, and its primary function is to break down proteins.

When you bite into a fresh pineapple, the enzyme bromelain immediately acts on the proteins on the surface of your tongue and lips. This process can cause a mild reaction, such as irritation, which causes an itchy tongue sensation.

This sensation is usually harmless and only temporary, but it can be uncomfortable for some people.

The hard, fibrous center of the pineapple contains the highest amount of bromelain. So if you often feel an uncomfortable tongue after eating that part, then the problem is most likely in that center.

How to reduce an itchy tongue

Some people leave a peeled pineapple overnight to reduce the itching sensation. However, this method has not been scientifically proven to be effective, and nutritionists recommend cooking pineapple or soaking it in hot water.

Hot water can reduce the bromelain enzyme, which automatically reduces the itching sensation on the tongue.

Furthermore, saliva also helps neutralize the bromelain enzyme. So chewing slowly can help reduce an itchy tongue naturally. If itching occurs, drinking water or milk can help soothe the discomfort in your mouth.

Does an itchy tongue mean an allergy?

Many people worry that an itchy tongue means an allergy to pineapple. In fact, this itching is not a sign of an allergy, but rather a natural chemical reaction of bromelain to proteins in the mouth.

However, if the itching sensation is accompanied by swelling, a rash, or shortness of breath, then we need to be alert for symptoms of an actual allergy.

For most people, an itchy tongue after eating pineapple will disappear on its own within a few minutes. So don't panic; just let it sit for a few minutes and your body will neutralize it.

Health Benefits of Pineapple

Interestingly, this fruit, which often causes an uncomfortable itchy tongue, actually has a myriad of health benefits.

Pineapples are rich in vitamin C, which plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system and fighting free radicals that cause premature aging.

Furthermore, the potassium content in pineapples helps maintain blood pressure and lowers the risk of heart disease.

The fiber also supports the digestive system and aids in weight loss by increasing fat burning in the body.

So, even though pineapples can sometimes make your tongue itch, they remain a tropical fruit with many health benefits.

Tips for Enjoying Pineapples Safely

Here are some simple tips and tricks to help you enjoy pineapple without feeling overly anxious:

1. Choose a perfectly ripe pineapple.

Young pineapples contain more bromelain, so choose a pineapple that is truly ripe.

2. Wash the pineapple flesh with salt water.

Salt can neutralize some of the bromelain enzyme in pineapple. Dissolve the salt in water and soak the pineapple pieces in the water for a few minutes.

3. Mix with other ingredients.

Using yogurt, milk, or honey can really help neutralize the acidity of pineapple.

4. Process with warm water.

This can be done by boiling the pineapple for a short time (just 19 minutes), which will destroy most of the bromelain enzyme.

With this simple trick, you can still enjoy the freshness of pineapple without worrying about an itchy tongue.

Conclusion

The sensation of an itchy tongue after eating pineapple is actually not dangerous. This is simply a natural effect of the bromelain enzyme breaking down proteins in the mouth.

By preparing it properly, you can avoid discomfort on your tongue without sacrificing its health benefits.