Pears are undeniably delicious. But they’re often left ignored in our fruit baskets or on our tables for days on end until they rot. And even when it comes to plantations, they play second fiddle to their better-known relative, apples. However, one look at the nutrition this temperate fruit provides along with how versatile it is — eaten fresh, spiced, poached, or even fermented — is sure to make you see pears in a different light. And just to seal this deal, we’ve put together a list of health benefits that might just drive you to pear your next meal with them (pun intended).
1. Reduces The Incidence Of Stroke
Statistics state that on average, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds.1 Naturally, arming yourself with foods that fight it, in addition to leading a healthy lifestyle, will reduce your chances of ever having one. A Dutch study found that people consuming more white fruits and vegetables had a 52% lower incidence of stroke, as opposed to those that had the lowest intake, with every 25 gram increase in consumption each day leading to a 9% lowered risk of the disorder. This is a good reason to add pears to your daily bowl of fruits.2
2. Maintains Gut Health
If you tend to have a “weak” stomach and struggle to manage your bowel movements, consuming pears might help. One cup of this fruit packs in 5 grams of fiber, which accounts for 20% of the daily recommended amount. And studies have found that dietary fiber promotes a shift in the gut towards different types of beneficial bacteria, which support a healthy gastrointestinal system.3 4
3. May Fight Diverticulosis
Diverticulitis is characterized by inflammation or infection in the bulging sacs that are found in lining of the large intestine. Consuming enough fiber may decrease the frequency of diverticulosis flare-ups by absorbing water in the colon, making bowel movements easier to pass. Consuming pears regularly will help you fight diverticulosis.5
4. May Promote Weight Loss
Fiber doubles up as a great barrier to weight gain. It leaves you feeling full for a long time and foods high in fiber are low in calories. This is why increased fiber intake is associated with enhanced weight loss, especially in obese individuals. Snack on pears and you’re bound to keep from the numbers rising on the scale.6
5. Fights Cardiovascular Disease
Increased fiber intake is linked to lowered cholesterol levels. Several studies have found that even a 10 gram per day increase in fiber intake can reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol) and total cholesterol. In addition to this, fiber also plays a role in regulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, which fights cardiovascular disease.7
6. Lowers Risk Of Developing Diabetes
Consuming a lot of fiber is linked to a lowered risk of developing diabetes. This is because fiber is not broken down by the body and has no effect on blood glucose levels. Consuming pears regularly can help you keep your blood sugar in check, while having a fruit that’s delicious and nutritious.8
7. Can Prevent Anemia And Its Symptoms
Pears are loaded with copper and iron. And since copper facilitates and improves the uptake of minerals into the system while iron is important for red blood cell synthesis. This makes pears a good addition to any anemia patient’s diet. This can prevent fatigue, muscle weakness, and cognitive malfunction that comes with anemia.9 10
8. May Prevent Birth Defects
Pears are high in folates and folic acid is positively linked to a reduction in the neural tube defects in newborns. This is why pregnant women are often asked to increase their folate intake. So include pears in your diet to protect the health of your unborn child.11
9. May Maintain Bone Health
Pears pack in magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, calcium, and copper. And these minerals have been shown to aid a reduction in bone mineral loss. In turn, they may prevent osteoporosis, fractures, and general body weakness due to lack of support from bones.12
10. Reduces Signs Of Aging
[pullquote]Be sure to stick to one pear a day and consult a professional if you develop any allergic symptoms after eating one.[/pullquote]
Pears are high in vitamin A as well as its components lutein and zeaxanthin (antioxidants). This vitamin fights free radical damage and participates in a series of enzymatic reactions to reduce signs of skin aging such as wrinkles and age spots. In addition to this, it can also reduce hair loss, vision loss, and cataract.13 14
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