The health benefits of pears

Lessen diabetes risk

A study published last year in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition evaluated the risk of type 2 diabetes in more than 200,000 people in the United States. It showed that a higher consumption of anthocyanins and anthocyanin-rich fruit-especially pears, apples and blueberries-is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Pears also have a low glycemic index, so they help stabilize blood sugar levels. (There’s no need to peel pears; many of their nutrients are in the peel.)

Reduce cancer risk

A pear’s high fibre content can help to bind lots of secondary bile acids. Too much of these compounds, which are in our intestines, can increase the risk of colorectal cancer and other intestinal problems. Pears and some other fruit may also reduce stomach cancer risk.

Decrease stroke risk

Fibre is good for more than keeping your digestive system regular. A study published this spring in the American Heart Association journal Stroke showed that for each seven-gram increase in total fibre intake per day, there was a seven percent decrease in risk for a first stroke. A large pear contains six grams of total fibre; a larger Asian variety, 10 grams.

Boost bone strength

Pears are a good source of the trace mineral boron. This helps the body to metabolize calcium, so it’s critical to bone growth and maintenance.

Fight free radicals

Pears are a source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects our cells from free-radical damage. No wonder that in The Odyssey, Homer referred to pears as a “gift of the gods.”

Related:
• Our best healthy pear recipes
• 10 healthy ways to cook with pears
• 5 ways pears are good for your health