Highly nutritious
There are several types of pears. The most common pears are Bartlett, Bosc, and D'Anjou, but there are over 100 varieties farmed globally. A medium-sized pear (178 grams) provides the following nutrients:
- Calories: 101
- Protein: 1 gram
- Carbs: 27 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
- Vitamin C: 12% of the daily value (DV)
- Vitamin K: 6% of DV
- Potassium: 4% of the DV
- Copper: 16% of DV
This serving contains trace quantities of folate, provitamin A, and niacin. Folate and niacin are essential for cellular function and energy generation, respectively, whilst provitamin A promotes skin health and wound healing. Pears are also high in key minerals such as copper and potassium. Copper helps with immunity, cholesterol metabolism, and neuron function, whereas potassium helps with muscle contractions and heart function. Furthermore, these fruits are high in polyphenol antioxidants, which protect against oxidative damage. Consume the entire pear, as the peel contains up to six times more polyphenols than the meat.