Health Benefits of Pears
A pear a day keeps the doctor away, or so the old adage goes. While it’s true that pears are high in fiber and vitamin C, many people don’t realize just how healthy they can be! Its have been used as medicine in China and Egypt, and its health benefits include aiding digestion, regulating blood sugar levels, improving joint health, preventing cancer, boosting immunity, fighting inflammation, and even reducing flatulence! Check out these 10 surprising health benefits of pears if you want to reap the rewards of this sweet treat with every bite!
Prevents Cancer
According to a study conducted by researchers at Pennsylvania State University, eating pears may help prevent colorectal cancer. The antioxidants in pears are known to detoxify harmful free radicals in our bodies and have also been proven to help fight cancer.
Boosts Immunity
Aside from being a delicious, crunchy snack, pears contain vitamin C and potassium, both of which have important health benefits. One study found that eating two servings of fruit or vegetables per day can cut your risk for colds by up to 60 percent (although scientists aren’t sure why). A diet rich in vitamin C may also protect against asthma and cancer. Potassium is key for regulating blood pressure and insulin levels, which means a high-potassium diet could help prevent type 2 diabetes.
Helps in Weight Loss
One reason pears are so beneficial is that they are low in calories and fat. Since they don’t contain many calories, they won’t contribute to weight gain or interfere with your weight loss efforts. Also, studies have shown that eating a pear before meals may help reduce hunger and cravings while you eat. And since most people tend to overeat when trying to clean their plate, these two factors make pears an excellent choice for those who want to lose weight.
Lowers Blood Pressure
The fiber in pears has been shown to help lower blood pressure. A pear-rich diet can also help with weight loss, as it’s high in fiber. Try to eat one pear a day for the best results.
Keeps Heart Health in Check
While pears aren’t considered to be a superfood, they do have some impressive health benefits. Like their fellow fruits, they’re high in fiber—but they also contain potassium and antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids. Plus, they’re a good source of vitamin C and copper, both of which help with heart health.
Prevents Diabetes
The high fiber content in pears helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevent insulin spikes. Plus, they’re low on the glycemic index (GI), which means they don’t release energy into your bloodstream too quickly, so you’ll stay fuller longer. The fiber and water in pears also help boost feelings of fullness.
Prevents Osteoporosis
The high-calcium content in pears helps improve bone health and decreases the risk for osteoporosis. In fact, a 2011 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that pear peels and flesh contain particularly high levels of calcium. Pear skin has even been shown to inhibit bone resorption in rats—potentially reducing fracture risk.
Prevents Colds and Flu
Pears are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that may help reduce your risk of colds and flu. In fact, research shows that people who consume a diet high in beta-carotene have half as many respiratory infections as those who eat little or none at all. Low Vitamin C Levels: If you suffer from frequent colds or influenza, pears may be a good food choice for you since they’re rich in vitamin C.
Improves Digestion
Fiber-rich pears aid digestion and help prevent constipation. Pair a pair with cheese for a filling snack that won’t weigh you down. Or add chopped pear to your favorite whole-grain cereal or oatmeal for an extra fiber boost. Fiber is also helpful in stabilizing blood sugar, helping regulate hunger, and keeping us fuller longer throughout the day.
Keeps Skin Clear
Since pears are high in vitamins and minerals, they’re great for your skin. A study published in 2006 in the British Journal of Nutrition found that women who ate pears had smoother skin than those who didn’t. If you have sensitive skin or acne, eating a pear regularly can make a big difference. These antioxidants also help neutralize free radicals in your body, which can reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging.
