five reasons to...

EAT PEARS BY NUTRITIONIST LILY SOUTTER

1 THEY ARE GREAT FOR DIGESTION

PEARS contain high levels of dietary fibre – as much as 6g in one medium-sized fruit. “Consumption of dietary fibre is key for digestive health and preventing constipation,” says Lily. “What’s more, raw pear is 84% water, so if you struggle to stay hydrated throughout the day, this tasty snack can be a way of increasing your intake.”

2 THEY CAN HELP WITH WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

WHILE the calorie content of some fruits, such as dates and avocados, can put some people off, there is no such issue with pears.

“Not only do pears taste great, but they are a perfect low-calorie addition to [any] diet when losing weight,” says Lily, plus, “their high-fibre content means that this delicious sweet snack is great for keeping hunger at bay.”

3 THEY MAY HELP PREVENT CANCER

“PEARS are a great source of antioxidants and polyphenols, including flavanols. They are also a source of the antioxidant nutrient vitamin C,” says Lily.

She adds that, while more research is needed, some evidence suggests a diet high in antioxidantrich fruit and vegetables may have anti-cancer benefits.

4 THEY HELP BALANCE BLOOD SUGAR

THE sweetness of pears has added benefits to the body, according to Lily. “Pears provide a proportion of their sugar as fructose. Interestingly, fructose-rich foods do not raise blood sugar levels as rapidly as glucose.”

Lily explains that they also minimise the risk of a blood sugar crash which often comes with consumption of high-sugar foods like sweets and biscuits.

“What’s more, the high-fibre content of pears ensures that a slow and sustained release of sugar is provided to the body and brain,” she adds.

5 THEY PROVIDE KEY MINERALS

“PEARS provide a source of potassium, magnesium and iron,” says Lily.