Pears Examined For Probiotic Benefits

A recently published study details pears’ potential to impact chronic diseases in the March issue of Food Research International.

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The study, co-authored by Dipayan Sarkar and Kalidas Shetty of North Dakota State University, examined the compounds found in Bartlett and Starkrimson pears to understand how they influence the control of chronic diseases.
The research was conducted in an in vitro setting and suggests fermentation of these varieties enhances their ability to control stomach related diseases involving H. pylori, the most common chronic bacterial infection in humans, without affecting beneficial bacteria with probiotic potential.

This study is one of several ongoing projects supported and funded by Northwest pear growers to detail the nutritional benefits of a diet rich in fresh pears.

“Bacteria is often perceived as something that causes diseases; however, the body is full of bacteria that are mostly good,” Shetty says. “It’s exciting to explore the potential that pears can have to balance beneficial bacterial activity in the digestive process, as gut health helps support overall health of the body.”

The research team also explored using a diet of fresh pears as a management strategy to combat Type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease complications. Researchers discovered both Bartlett and Starkrimson pears have phenolics and antioxidants and activity which slows down enzymes related to starch and glucose metabolism. These may be beneficial in managing early hyperglycemia and diabetes-induced hypertension.

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Source: Pear Bureau Northwest news release

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