Pears have been around for thousands of years. This bell-shaped fruit is sweet, which is why it is commonly eaten around the world. This delicious fruit has many proven health and nutritional benefits. In this article, we are going to talk about 6 scientifically proven health benefits of pears. Read on to find out more.
1. Full of nutrients
These are different pear varieties such as D’Anjou, Bosc and Bartlett. In fact, more than 100 species of this fruit are grown worldwide. Below are the nutrients contained in a medium sized pear.
• Calories: 101
• Carbohydrates: 27 grams
• Copper: 16% of the daily value
• Fiber: 6 grams
• Protein 1 gram
• Potassium: 4% of the daily value
• Vitamin C: 12% of DV
• Vitamin K: 6% of the daily value
Aside from the nutrients mentioned, the same serving offers a bit of niacin, provitamin, and folic acid. They are important for the proper functioning of your cells and healthy skin. In addition, pears contain many important minerals such as potassium and copper.
2. Gut healthy
Pears are high in soluble and insoluble fiber. Both fiber types play an important role in maintaining your gut health. Basically, fiber helps soften and bulky stool in your intestines, so you don’t have problems with bowel movements.
A medium-sized pear contains about 6 grams of fiber, which is 22% of the amount of fiber your body needs on a daily basis. If you suffer from constipation, you can eat pears to encourage the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut and find significant relief.
3. Beneficial plant compounds
Pears contain many healthy plant compounds such as anthocyanins. Regular consumption of the fruit can strengthen your blood vessels. This will help you reduce the risk of heart disease.
Even if you consume green-skinned pears, you can improve or maintain your eyesight. The reason is that this type of pears contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are good for your eye health.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is an immune response, but chronic inflammation can negatively impact your health. For example, if left untreated, long-term inflammation can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in pears may help reduce the risk of heart disease and fight inflammation. Also, the fruit is rich in various types of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C and copper.
5. Anticancer Properties
Pears contain cinnamic acid, which helps fight various types of cancer such as bladder cancer, stomach cancer, and lung cancer. Some studies have found that it may help protect against ovarian and breast cancer, which is why women may benefit from consuming the fruit.
6. Lower risk of stroke
According to some studies, regular consumption of pears can help reduce the risk of stroke. For example, a study conducted over 10 years with 20,000 volunteers found that eating 25 grams of this white-fleshed fruit reduced the risk of stroke by 9%.
In short, if you want to enjoy all of these health benefits, we recommend including pears in your diet. Hope that helps.
Thanks to Abdul Waheed Zafar
