Calories In Pears And Pears Health Benefits

Once known as the “Gift of the Gods”, pears are sweet, tasty fruits and are related to apples. Unlike apples though, they have a soft skin, and the fruit itself is softer and easier to eat. A medium-sized pear weighs about 166 grams and contains approximately 96 calories, of which 2 calories are from fats. A small pear weighs about 139 grams and contains about 80 calories. One cup of cubed pears weighs about 160 grams and contains approximately 93 calories, 2 calories of which are from fats.

Pears are also very high in roughage and dietary fibers.

They are low in saturated fats and have no cholesterol. They are also very low in sodium content. However, pears have been known to contain more levulose (the sweetest of all natural sugars) than any other fruit. Pears are also a good source of vitamins B2, C and E, potassium, and copper. In smaller quantities, pears contain chlorine, iron, sulphur, sodium calcium, and magnesium as well. They also contain traces of iodine and phosphorus.

Because of the high levels of pectin, which is a water-soluble fiber, pears have the properties to strengthen the cardiovascular system and improve colon health. They help keep the digestive system clean and also prevent constipation. Several streams of research have shown that fiber has the ability to lower cholesterol levels.

Pears have many health benefits. They lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. They also protect cells from free radicals and fight cancer owing to its vitamin and copper contents. They have an anti-inflammatory effect, and help relieve symptoms of many inflammatory conditions like asthma and different forms of arthritis. Pears help to prevent osteoporosis because of its boron content which retains calcium in the bones. They can be consumed by pregnant women, and help in ensuring the baby’s health because of its high content of folic acid.

There are many ways to consume pears. Ideally, they should be eaten when they are fully ripe. If they are bought when they are still not completely ripe, they can be stored at room temperature till they ripen. They can be made into juice and consumed for an instant shot of energy; its high content of sugar and glucose gives this boost. A glass of pear juice can also help in making a fever subside. After consulting your doctor or child care specialist, you can even introduce pears as the first fruit for a baby as it is hypoallergenic and high in fiber.

Submitted on January 16, 2014