Pears are an excellent fruit for gut health and digestion.
When it comes to fall meals, pears are a bit of an afterthought, primarily when the spotlight is focused on pumpkin, squash, and apples. Many individuals are unaware. However, that pears have numerous health benefits.
One of the most significant benefits of eating pears, according to Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, author of The Sports Nutrition Playbook, is that they are a good source of Fiber.
"A medium-sized pear contains about 6 grams of fiber," adds Goodson, "and they are fantastic for your heart and intestinal health because they include both soluble and insoluble fiber."
Read on to find out more about the health benefits of fibrous foods like pears.
Why do we require Fiber?
Fiber is an essential component for proper digestion, a healthy gut, and even chronic disease prevention. And what's even more fascinating is that your body can't digest Fiber the same way it does other nutrients.
On the other hand, Fiber goes through by absorbing liquid or being absorbed by the drink, depending on the type of Fiber!
Soluble Fiber
Soluble and insoluble fibers are found in most fibrous foods, including pears. In your body, soluble Fiber dissolves in water and becomes gelatinous. It also helps you maintain a healthy gut and heart, according to Goodson.
"Soluble fiber can benefit your gut by acting as a prebiotic and nourishing your body's "good" bacteria," explains Goodson, "and it can also keep your heart healthy by lowering your cholesterol."
Insoluble Fiber
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, insoluble fiber cannot be absorbed in water and instead softens our stool for more straightforward digestion and bowel motions. Insoluble fiber has been shown to help prevent constipation and even lessen our risk of chronic diseases due to its effects on our regularity.
Pears have several other advantages.
Pears, in addition to being substantial in Fiber, are also high in flavonoids, an antioxidant. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, flavonoids have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of chronic disease.