Health Benefits of the Asian Pear
‘Pyrus pyrifolia’ is a rather complex name for something most of us instinctively know is good for us ‘at first bite’: the Asian pear. Originally found in China, Japan and Korea and now grown locally in California, this crisp, refreshing fruit boasts many varieties which differ in texture, color and sweetness, but which share a highly palatable flavor and a host of health benefits that may surprise you. In this post we name a few reasons why Asian pears should be part of your family’s staple diet:
* Fresh, Organic Asian Pears are rich in phytonutrients: Phytonutrients are bright-coloured plant chemicals which are considered to be more powerful in fighting aging than the free radical scavenger Vitamins (A, C and E) and minerals (zinc and selenium) that were the buzzwords in health literature in the 1980s and 1990s. The new millennium is all about phytonutrients, present in different forms in different fruits and vegetables. Some fight inflammation; others have great anti-aging effects on the skin. Asian pears are rich in two types of phytonutrients: flavonols and flavan-3-ols, which decrease the risk of contracting Type II diabetes. For optimum effect, combine your Asian pear intake with apples, since a recent study indicates that this combination has been most consistently successful in keeping Type II diabetes at bay.
* They are biophoton-rich: Pears in their raw form contain what renowned German scientist, Fritz-Albert Popp describes as ‘biophoton’ energy – the light collected by plants during the process of photosynthesis. This energy can be measured in fruits and vegetables and is present in much higher amounts in quality, fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. They are also abundant in healthy, as opposed to diseased, tissue in our bodies. When we cook fruits and vegetables, these biophotons are destroyed, which is why experts like Swiss physician, Dr. Maximilian Bircher-Benner (the so-called ‘Father of Muesli’) and Dr. Max Gerson prescribe a diet which is rich in raw foods, to combat a host of serious illnesses (including cancer). Consuming fresh, raw Asian pears allow us to absorb their highly ordered biophoton energy, which helps balance our own energy. Research indicates that biophotons improve inter-cellular communication, stimulate the metabolism and immune system, eliminate toxins and prevent the development of serious diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
* Asian Pears Keep Heart Disease and Cancer at Bay: Recent studies indicate that pear fibers bind to bile acids in the intestine, lowering the level of bile acids and leading to a reduced rate of cholesterol synthesis. This same process also lowers the risk of contracting colon cancer.
* They are high in electrolytes: Electrolytes are essential minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium, chlorine, sodium and phosphate. These electrically charge particles are crucial to proper nerve and muscle function and to the maintenance of the correct balance of fluids in the body. Our electrolyte balance can be thrown off after we exercise heavily, during illness or in hot weather. Ensuing dehydration can cause a number of symptoms, including low blood pressure, a feeling of faintness and even stomach upset. This is why, especially during challenging or stressful times, it is vital to stock up on fluids and fruits which are rich in electrolytes. Asian pears, along with bananas, melons, peaches and oranges, are high in potassium, a crucial mineral for those suffering from kidney disease or high blood pressure. A healthy intake of potassium has also been linked to bone health, especially in women, making the Asian pear a handy tool in keeping osteoporosis at bay.
* Asian Pears Keep You Slim: The high fibre content of Asian pears (just one pear contains 4 grams of fiber, which is 18% of the Recommended Daily Allowance) leads to a lasting feeling of satiety, decreasing hunger pangs and reducing cravings for fatty and sugary foods. There are less than 50 calories in an Asian pear, so you can certainly afford to eat more than one a day! Obesity is one of the greatest risks for cardiovascular disease and cancer, so foods that keep your weight down should definitely be part of a staple diet.
* They Promote Eye Health: Pears are rich in Vitamin C, which is crucial to eye health. Vitamin C lowers the risk of developing cataracts and, when taken in conjunction with other vital nutrients, is capable of slowing down the development of age-related macular degeneration and visual acuity loss.