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People tend to think that pears have
more in common with fruits like apples and oranges than with beans in
maintaining good health. But it so happens that pears, like beans
contain a kind of dietary fiber that is very effective in lowering
cholesterol levels.
Pears contain an insoluble fiber,
lignin, which traps cholesterol molecules in the intestine and
prevents them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Eventually it
goes into the stool and is expelled from the body.
The insoluble fiber in pears performs
another useful function. As its name suggests, it does not dissolve in
the intestine. Instead it absorbs a large quantity of water and causes
the stool to pass easily and quickly through the large intestine. This
helps to prevent constipation and piles and reduces the risk of colon
cancer.
In addition, pears contain another type
of soluble fiber called pectin which dissolves in the intestine and
forms a gel like coating in which prevents cholesterol from getting
into the bloodstream and getting rid of it in the stool.
Yet another health benefit of pears is
that they contain a mineral called boron which can help to keep bones
strong by preventing the loss of calcium. Boron has also been found to
improve mental alertness.
Most of the nutrients and fiber lie in
the skin. In order to enjoy the health benefits, pears should be eaten
with the skin on. |