The health benefits of pears: A seasonal superfood

The end of summer and the beginning of fall mark the peak season for pears. Although you can get these fruits year-round, they are the tastiest now because they come from local orchards. But does this mean you can eat them to your heart's content? It's worth knowing how the body reacts to pears.

Pears are notable for their iodine content. This is a rare component in fruits and positively affects thyroid function. They are also rich in many other minerals and vitamins. A lot of nutritional value is hidden in their skins, so you can eat them unpeeled.

Pears have various nutrients that support health on many levels. They contain a large amount of fibre, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. They are also a source of vitamins, including vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, and vitamin K, which is important for bone health. Pears also provide B vitamins, which are responsible for proper metabolism function. They contain minerals such as copper, potassium, and magnesium, which support heart health and regulate blood pressure. Thanks to antioxidants, pears help combat free radicals, reducing the risk of many chronic diseases.

Pears have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for people monitoring their blood sugar levels. Thanks to their fibre content, pears help stabilize blood sugar levels, which is particularly important for people with diabetes. Eating pears can also improve skin appearance thanks to the copper and vitamin C they contain, which support collagen production. They help maintain the body's electrolyte balance and support overall health.

Besides having many nutritional values, pearls also contain a lot of water. Therefore, they are not very caloric. However, if you are on a weight-loss diet, it's better to be mindful of their quantity. There are about 57-60 calories in 100 grams of fruit. One pear weighs about 170 grams, so it has approximately 100 calories.

They are delicious and nutritious, but you can't overeat them thoughtlessly. So, how many pears can you eat daily? It depends on your planned meals. On average, it's good to eat 0.5 kilograms of fruits and vegetables each day, and the dose recommended by nutritionists is even 0.8 to 1.2 kilograms. Fruits should make up 40% of this portion. If pears are the only fruit you eat that day, you can allow yourself 4-5 pieces. However, this is a general portion. It’s worth aiming for a varied diet and consuming different fruits.