How many calories are in a pear?

A medium pear (178g) contains about 101 calories. Small pears have 84 calories, large ones around 131. Pears are slightly higher in calories than apples but offer more fiber.

Are pears good for weight loss?

Pears are excellent for weight loss due to their high fiber content (3.1g per 100g), which promotes fullness. One study found people who ate pears regularly had lower body weight than non-pear eaters.

Pear vs apple: which is healthier?

Both are healthy choices. Pears have more fiber (3.1g vs 2.4g per 100g) and are gentler on digestion. Apples have slightly fewer calories (52 vs 57 per 100g). Pears are better for gut health; apples for polyphenols.

Are pears high in sugar?

Pears contain 9.8g of sugar per 100g, which is moderate for fruit. Their high fiber content slows sugar absorption, giving pears a low glycemic index of 38. They're suitable for most diabetics in moderation.

Can diabetics eat pears?

Yes, pears are diabetes-friendly with a low glycemic index of 38. The fiber slows glucose release into the bloodstream. Stick to one medium pear as a serving and pair with protein for better blood sugar control.

What are the health benefits of pears?

Pears support digestive health (high fiber), heart health (antioxidants), and immune function (vitamin C). They contain anti-inflammatory compounds and may help reduce risk of type 2 diabetes and stroke.

Should I eat the pear skin?

Yes, eat the skin. Pear skin contains most of the fiber and up to 6x more nutrients than the flesh, including chlorogenic acid and antioxidants. Wash thoroughly before eating.

How do I know when a pear is ripe?

Press gently near the stem - a ripe pear yields slightly. Unlike most fruits, pears ripen from the inside out, so the bottom may still be firm when ready. Bartlett pears turn yellow when ripe.

How should I store pears?

Store unripe pears at room temperature for 4-7 days until ripe. Once ripe, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To speed ripening, place in a paper bag with a banana.

Which pear variety has the fewest calories?

All pear varieties have similar calories (50-60 per 100g). Asian pears are slightly lower in sugar. Bartlett, Anjou, and Bosc all have comparable nutrition - choose based on texture preference.