Healthy Food of the Week: The Mighty Pear

According to TCM, the lungs and lower intestine have a connection. In the fall and early winter, lung problems are often accompanied by constipation. Enter the mighty pear which is a wonderful digestive aid that helps to normalize bowel function. Keeping the lungs healthy has a tremendous influence on all of the major organs that lie below them. Pears not only nourish the lungs and the throat, they help to clear phlegm and are anti-inflammatory as well.

Other therapeutic properties of the pear are:

•  Contains vitamins C, E, A, B1, B2, niacin and folic acid.
• High in phosphorus, copper, potassium and iron (some varieties more than others).
• Contains glutathione which helps prevent high blood pressure and stroke.
• Contains the flavonoid quercetin which is a potent antioxidant and is believed to help prevent cancer and artery damage.
• High pectin content helps lower cholesterol.
• High level of boron helps retain calcium for healthy bones.
• Anti-inflammatory and is an excellent fever reducer because of its cooling nature.
• Excellent for diabetics because of its low glycemic index and ability to help improve blood glucose levels.
• Creates an alkaline rather than acidic excess which is healthier for the body overall.
• Good energy producer.
• Excellent for the vocal cords.

Pears can be eaten raw (best alone as a snack) or baked, poached, steamed or juiced and combined with organic raw honey.  When ripe they will yield to light pressure like an avocado.  You can hasten the fruit ripening by placing in a paper bag.

Caution:  As with any other food, no matter how healthy, moderation is key.  Pears are not beneficial if you have too much internal cold in your body or loose, watery stools.  Pregnant women should not consume excessive amounts of pears.

Pregnant women should not consume excessive amounts of pears.

The season is winding down so don’t delay!