Pears are a pleasure to look at and to eat. Their bright color lends even the simplest meal a touch of elegance. Low in calories but high in vitamins and nutrients, pears make a tasty addition to a healthy diet. Eating them regularly can help you decrease your overall caloric intake. Sample different varieties of pears to discover your favorite ones.
Types
The three types of pears most often grown in the United States are European, Oriental hybrid and Asian. You're most likely to see European pears in the produce section of your grocery store, as these are particularly well suited for eating raw. Look for Bartlett, Bosc and D'Anjou, all of which have tender, succulent flesh. All of these pears can range in color from yellowish-green to red, and frequently display a range of color on the same fruit.
Basic Nutrition
A medium pear, which is about 6-oz, contains approximately 100 calories. The bulk of the calories in a pear are due to carbohydrates -- a medium pear contains 28g, 17g of which are sugars. A pear provides you with plenty of fiber. You'll get almost 6g of this healthy substance when you grab a pear for a snack. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, fiber can lower your risk of both heart disease and diabetes. Pears are fat-free and provide less than 1g protein.
Vitamins and Minerals
Pears provide a smattering of almost all major vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of potassium, as one medium pear contains 212mg of this nutrient. Eating foods that are rich in potassium helps to promote the healthy functioning of the brain, heart and muscles, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Pears also contribute small amounts of magnesium and calcium to your diet.
Uses
Many people think of pears as a fruit to grab and eat on the go or to pack in a lunch. Pears are very versatile, however, and can be used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Use a bounty of pears to make pear butter -- a cinnamon-flavored spread that is similar to apple butter. Slice a pear and toss it in a salad to add a bit of sweetness. Poached pears make a delicious low-fat treat. You can also chop them up and add them to muffins or oatmeal.
Benefits
The primary benefit that pears have to offer besides their delicate, sometimes winey flavor, is their fiber. A study published in the nutritional science journal "Nutrition" notes that apples and pears help dieters to take weight off faster than people who do not include these foods in their diet. It is likely that the fiber in the pears is what helps dieters take off the pounds, as fiber can increase satiety.
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