Pears (pyrus communis)
Another juicy little powerhouse found this time of year at local farmers markets.
Unfortunately, we often find these little beauties peeled and floating in cans of sugar laden syrup. YIKES!
There are many varieties and colors of pears that can be used in sweet and savory recipes throughout the year.
Any pear you choose is waiting to deliver you with a healthy nutrition blast that’s accompanied by a sweet and delicious taste.
Pears are versatile. For example, you can quickly turn pears into a tasty baked snack chip, see recipe in resources area below.
Pears are often found in smoothies, jams, crumbles, salad dressings, vinaigrettes, fruit leather, compote, chutney, wine and more.
5 Powerful Reasons to Enjoy a Pear Today
One
I’ll say it again. Don’t peel me bro! The skin on pears contains antioxidants, flavonoids, and phytonutrients that fight cancer, inflammation, and oxidative damage. When you peel them, they lose a majority of their super powers!
Two
Some of the flavonoids in pear skin can actually improve how the body utilizes insulin, so eating them regularly can help maintain healthy blood glucose levels.
Three
Pears can help keep your bowels regular with all of the fiber and water they contain.
Four
Whole pears contain an amazing number of phytonutrients that are known for lowering the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
The phytonutrients are: hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, hyrdroxyquinone, flavanol, carotenoid, and, if they are red-skinned, anthocyanin.
Five
For such a small number of calories, one small pear packs an amazing amount of soluble & insoluble fiber as well as a good amount of vitamin C, copper, & vitamin K
Remember
Eating a whole pear, skin and all, is best for your body.
However, if you buy pear juice, make sure it is NOT strained or else you’ll lose all of the wonderful health benefits of the pulp.
Now, it's time to go pick up a pair of pears and give them a try today.
Thanks for reading and Enjoy!
Resources:
All Recipes – Pear Vinaigrette: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/218334/pear-vinaigrette/
Best Health Magazine Cananda – Our best healthy pear recipes: http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-eats/cooking/our-best-healthy-pear-recipes/
Chowhound – Cinnamon and Pear Fruit Leather: https://www.chowhound.com/recipes/cinnamon-and-pear-fruit-leather-29919
Food Network – In Season Pear Recipes: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/photos/in-season-pear-recipes
Marth Stewart – Pear Recipes: http://www.marthastewart.com/275372/pear-recipes
My Fitness Pal Blog – Easy Baked Pear Chips: http://blog.myfitnesspal.com/easy-baked-pear-chips/
Seasonal Chef – Seven Savory Ways to Use Pears: http://www.seasonalchef.com/recipe0908a.htm
USA Pears – Recipes: http://usapears.org/search-recipes/