Pear

Bio-Activity Analysis
Fiber Content Comparison (per 100g)
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Digestive Health: High in pectin, a soluble fiber that acts as a prebiotic, feeding healthy gut bacteria.
- Heart Health: Contains flavonoids linked to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Antioxidant Power: Rich in Vitamin C and copper, which fight cellular damage.
- Weight Management: High water content and fiber promote fullness (satiety).
Deep Dive
Pears are unique because they are one of the least allergenic fruits, making them an excellent dietary staple for sensitive individuals. The skin is particularly rich in quercetin, an antioxidant that helps regulate blood pressure and combats chronic inflammation. Furthermore, the fiber content in pears is exceptional—one medium pear provides about 22% of your daily fiber needs. This helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing digestion, preventing spikes that can lead to cravings. Unlike supplements derived from isolated chemicals, the fiber matrix in whole pears works holistically to cleanse the digestive tract.
Natural Food Sources
The goal is to eat the fruit whole, skin on, to maximize fiber and antioxidant intake.
| Food | Amount | % DV (Fiber) |
|---|---|---|
| Pear (Raw, with skin) | 1 medium (178g) | 22% |
| Pear (Canned) | 1 cup | 12% |
| Pear Juice | 1 cup | 15% |
Supplementation
While eating the fruit is best, pear supplements exist in the form of Pear Fiber Powder or Pear Extract. These are typically used to boost fiber intake or for concentrated antioxidant benefits (often derived from the peel). They are useful for those who struggle to eat enough fruit or need concentrated support for gut health. Dosage varies by product, but generally 1-2 teaspoons of powder daily is standard.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Pears are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for the vast majority of people. However, due to high fructose and fiber content, eating excessive amounts may cause bloating or gas in sensitive individuals. If you have IBS, introduce them slowly. There are no known major drug interactions, but always consult a doctor if you are on a strict low-FODMAP diet.
Scientific References
- [1]Song, Y., et al. (2015). 'Pear consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease.' *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition*.
- [2]Boyer, J., & Liu, R.H. (2004). 'Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits.' *Nutrition Journal* (Relevant comparative data for pears).
- [3]Kalt, W., et al. (2020). 'Health Relevance of Flavonoids.' *Annual Review of Food Science and Technology*.