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6 Reasons to Eat More Pears
September 20, 2025
Juicy, sweet and crisp, pears are more than just a fall favorite. They’re packed with nutrients and offer health benefits year-round.
So, if you haven’t thought to eat more pears, here’s why they deserve a permanent spot in your fruit bowl.
1. They’re naturally sweet – without the sugar spike.
Pears satisfy a sweet tooth without the added sugars found in desserts or processed snacks.
“They’re a low glycemic index food, meaning they don’t cause sharp blood sugar spikes,” says Samantha Oldman, registered dietitian with Hartford HealthCare. “They’re a great alternative to refined sweets.”
That means pears are especially helpful for people watching their blood sugar, but anyone can benefit from the steady energy they offer.
> Related: The 8 Best Fruits for Your Health
2. They’re rich in fiber for digestive health.
One medium pear has nearly 20% of your daily fiber needs, thanks to pectin — a soluble fiber that promotes regularity and feeds healthy gut bacteria.
“That makes pears a natural prebiotic, helping maintain a balanced microbiome,” Oldman explains.
Plus, fiber helps you feel fuller for longer, which can help support healthy weight management.
3. They help your heart.
Pectin fiber helps lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, while the potassium in pears supports healthy blood pressure. Those are two key factors in protecting your long-term cardiovascular health.
Pear skins, especially in varieties like Anjou, contain anthocyanins — plant pigments linked to improved vascular health.
> Related: 8 Heart-Healthy Snacks to Keep You Going
4. They keep you hydrated.
At about 85% water by weight, pears can help you stay hydrated — an underrated but important benefit.
“They’re a tasty way to meet your daily fluid needs,” says Oldman.
Hydration plays a role in everything from energy level to skin health. So reaching for a pear on a hot day, or after exercise, is not only refreshing but a great choice for your health.
> Related: 8 Foods That Keep You Hydrated in the Summer Heat
5. They’re loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Pears are a great source of:
- Vitamin C – for immune function and skin health
- Vitamin K – for bone health and proper clotting
- Potassium – for muscle and nerve function
- Copper – for iron absorption and connective tissue support
- Quercetin – anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
And unlike supplements, pears deliver these nutrients naturally.
> Related: Do Supplements Actually Work?
6. They’re versatile in the kitchen.
From savory-sweet sandwiches with brie to salads with walnuts and goat cheese, pears shine in countless dishes.
Try them baked with cinnamon and nuts, blended into smoothies, or diced into overnight oats with nut butter. You can even roast them alongside chicken or pork for a comforting fall dinner.
And because pears come in so many varieties, from crisp Asian pears to soft, juicy Bartletts, they add texture and variety to meals year-round.
Fresh, canned or dried – which is best?
Fresh pears with skin offer the most fiber and antioxidants, while canned pears can still be a healthy option if packed in juice instead of syrup. And dried pears? They’re great for on-the-go snacking, but because they’re more calorie-dense, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.
No matter the variety, pears are a sweet, versatile way to boost your nutrition. From crisp slices in salads to baked desserts or simple snacks, there are so many delicious reasons to eat more pears all year long.