Health benefits of pears and key warnings for certain conditions

Nutritionist Dr. Natalia Sheparyova has highlighted that pears are rich in fiber, pectin, flavonoids, vitamins, and trace elements, making their nutritional value comparable to some so-called superfoods.

Sheparyova explained that the fiber in pears improves bowel function and helps prevent constipation, while pectin aids in eliminating excess cholesterol.

Sorbitol also supports liver function, stimulates bile secretion, and has a mild laxative effect.

Sheparyova added that pears contain copper, silicon, cobalt, potassium, folate, and a small amount of iodine.

They also contain the natural compound arbutin, which has antiseptic properties and may help limit bacterial growth in the urinary tract.

The nutritionist warned against eating pears on an empty stomach, as their fiber and organic acids may irritate the stomach lining.

She also advised people with gastritis with high acidity, stomach ulcers, or acute pancreatitis to avoid raw pears.

She noted that those with irritable bowel syndrome accompanied by diarrhea should consume pears with caution, while people suffering from constipation may benefit from adding them to their diet.

Sheparyova pointed out that eating pears with meat, milk, or legumes may cause fermentation and bloating in some individuals.

She also cautioned against excessive consumption of astringent varieties of pears among those prone to blood clotting, due to their high tannin content.

She recommended choosing ripe, aromatic, undamaged pears, and allowing hard pears to ripen at room temperature for two to three days.

Sheparyova emphasized that eating pears with their skin provides the greatest benefit, and the optimal amount is one or two per day. For those advised to avoid raw pears, she suggested eating them baked instead.