Visually, Asian pears are more like apples than pears. Round and golden, they look more like apples. Nutritionally, Asian pears differ from apples, as they are much higher in fiber and vitamin K. Asian pears also contain more water than either apples or other pear varieties, so they are best eaten raw. When used in baking, Asian pears become soggy and can water down dishes such as pie.
Fiber
One large raw Asian pear contains 116 calories, nearly all of which come from carbohydrates. One pear contains 29 g of carbohydrates with 10 g of fiber. This provides 36 percent of the daily value of fiber for women and 29 percent for men. Unlike other types of carbohydrates, fiber is not completely broken down by the body. It passes through the body only partially digested, helping other material move with it. Lots of fiber can help relieve constipation.
Minerals
Asian pears, like many fruits, contain a significant amount of potassium. One large pear contains 333 mg, which provides 7 percent of the daily value. Potassium is important for proper fluid balance and it can also offset the negative effects of sodium so it is an important mineral for those with high blood pressure. One large pear also supplies 15 percent of the daily value of copper and 7 percent of manganese. Copper helps your body use iron to form red blood cells. Manganese helps your body absorb calcium and assists with blood sugar regulation.
Water-Soluble Vitamins
One large Asian pear supplies 14 percent of the daily value of vitamin C for women and 11 percent for men. Because vitamin C is water-soluble, it must be replenished daily because it is flushed from the body through the urine. Vitamin C helps your body form collagen, which is a protein found in all connective tissue, such as ligaments and tendons. One Asian pear also supplies smaller amounts of many B vitamins, such as 5 percent of folate and 4 percent of pantothenic acid, niacin and B-6. B vitamins support your nervous system and help you produce energy from your food.
Vitamin K
One large Asian pear contains 12.4 mcg of vitamin K, which provides 14 percent of the daily value for women and 10 percent for men. Vitamin K is essential for normal blood clotting and also helps with bone formation. Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin K, are more easily absorbed when eaten with fat. Eating 1 tbsp. of peanut butter or some cheese with your pear will help you absorb the vitamin K.
Member Comments