Why eat more pears? Good question. Alongside apples, pears are among the most consumed fruits. This is largely due to their richness in vitamins and minerals, which support the body’s functions, especially during winter when they are in season.
Another undeniable advantage is their high satiety level despite their low calorie content. In fact, 100 grams of this fruit provide only about 40 calories.
And then there’s their versatility. This can be eaten raw or cooked in many ways, including in both sweet and savory dishes like salads.
But why should you eat them more often? Here’s why.
6 Little-Known Benefits of Pears
1. Helps Fight Aging
Who would have thought? Pears are excellent allies in fighting oxidative stress and slowing down aging.
Their consumption adds antioxidants to the diet, such as carotenoids, which play a key role in protecting against oxidative stress.
2. They Support Gut Health
Pears provide fiber, which not only improves digestion but also has a prebiotic effect. These fibers reach the colon intact, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria and promoting the production of metabolites and short-chain fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and help protect against obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases.
It also contain insoluble fiber, which helps regulate bowel movements.
3. Protects the Heart
Pears support heart health thanks to their fiber content, which helps reduce inflammation and the risk of hypertension, promoting cardiovascular well-being.
They also help maintain low levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and provide catechins, polyphenols, chlorogenic acid, and other phenolic acids that prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.
4. Good for the Brain
Pears protect brain health by supplying phenolic acids, catechins, and other antioxidants. Thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties, they help safeguard neurons, reducing the risk of neurological diseases and disorders.
5. They Strengthen Bones
Pears benefit bones and joints. In addition to providing calcium and magnesium, they contain carotenoids, which the body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for muscle and bone health, contributing to bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
6. Pears Help Reduce Stress and Improve Sleep
Thanks to the fiber found primarily in the skin, pears nourish beneficial gut bacteria, which are also involved in producing mood-boosting neurotransmitters like serotonin.
Pears help combat stress with their mineral and vitamin content. Potassium, calcium, and magnesium in these fruits promote relaxation and a sense of calm.
Additionally, pears contain melatonin, which supports better sleep quality.
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This article first appeared on Grazia.it – Author: Angela Altomare
