As the weather turns cooler, we often feel dryness creeping in—dry throat, dry nose, dry skin, and even that annoying autumn cough. But here's some good news: pears might be the perfect seasonal remedy!
With their juicy sweetness and natural hydrating properties, pears have long been called "nature's mineral water." But how exactly should we eat them to get the most benefits? Should we eat them raw or cooked? And what are the best ways to enjoy pears in the fall? Let's find out!
Pears Keep Us Hydrated and Healthy
Pears aren't just delicious; they come packed with benefits that our bodies will thank us for, especially in the dry autumn months.
1. Soothing Dryness and Cooling the Body
Pears are naturally cooling and full of juice, making them perfect for combating seasonal dryness. If you often feel your throat or skin getting dry in the fall, eating pears can help keep your body hydrated and comfortable.
2. Easing Coughs and Soothing the Throat
Autumn air can make us prone to dry coughs, itchy throats, or hoarseness. Pears help moisten the lungs and reduce phlegm, making them a great natural remedy for coughs. And here's a little secret—pear skin is even better than the flesh when it comes to stopping coughs! Instead of throwing it away, try boiling pear skin into a tea or eating the whole pear with the skin on.
3. Fighting Inflammation and Boosting Immunity
Pears contain polyphenols and flavonoids, natural compounds that help the body fight inflammation and boost the immune system. If you often experience throat irritation or mild respiratory issues in the fall, eating pears can help soothe inflammation and strengthen your body's defenses.
4. Supporting Digestion and Preventing Constipation
With plenty of dietary fiber and sorbitol, pears help keep our digestive system running smoothly. They add moisture to stool, stimulate bowel movements, and promote gut health, making them a natural solution for constipation.
5. Helping with Weight Control
Pears are low in calories (about 50 kcal per 100g), making them a great snack if you're watching your weight. Eating a pear before meals can increase feelings of fullness, helping to control appetite and support weight management.
Raw or Cooked? The Best Way to Eat Pears
Pears can be enjoyed both raw and cooked, but each method has different benefits:
• Raw pears help clear excess heat from the body and are great for people experiencing sore throats, feverish hands and feet, or a red tongue.
• Cooked pears reduce the fruit's natural cooling effect, making them gentler on the stomach and even more effective for nourishing and hydrating the body. If you have a sensitive stomach, warm pears are a better choice!
4 Golden Ways to Eat Pears in Fall
If you want to maximize the benefits of pears, try these simple yet effective recipes!
1. Lotus Seed and White Fungus Pear Soup
Ingredients: 20g lotus seeds, 10g white fungus, 1 pear, and some rock sugar.
How to Make It:
• Soak the lotus seeds and white fungus until soft, rinse, and cut into pieces.
• Remove the pear's core and cut it into slices.
• Put everything into a pot, add water, and simmer until the lotus seeds are soft and the soup is thick.
Benefits:
Lotus seeds help calm the mind, white fungus nourishes the stomach and lungs, and together with pears, this soup is perfect for easing dry coughs.
2. Steamed Pear with Red Dates – A Natural Cough Remedy
How to Make It:
• Wash a pear, cut off the top, and scoop out the core.
• Place a few red dates and some rock sugar inside the hollowed-out pear.
• Steam for about 20 minutes and enjoy warm.
Benefits:
Red dates help strengthen digestion and boost energy, while steaming the pear makes it more soothing for the throat and lungs.
3. Homemade Pear Syrup (Qiuli Paste) – The Ultimate Hydration Booster
Ingredients: 2kg snow pears, 20g ophiopogon root, 50g rock sugar, 100g honey, a pinch of salt.
How to Make It:
• Wash the pears thoroughly (keep the skin on), remove the core, and cut them into pieces.
• Blend the pears into juice.
• Boil the ophiopogon root in 400ml water, then strain to keep the liquid.
• Mix the pear juice with the herbal tea and rock sugar, then simmer over low heat until thick.
• Stir in honey, bring to a gentle boil, then turn off the heat.
• Take 1-2 spoonfuls, mix with warm water, and drink.
Important Notes:
• This syrup is high in natural sugars, so people with high blood sugar or diabetes should avoid it.
• If you have a cold with lots of mucus (especially white phlegm and a runny nose), this syrup isn't suitable.
• People with a "damp" body type (heaviness, thick tongue coating) should avoid too many sweet foods, including this syrup.
4. Honey Pear – A Simple Way to Fight Dryness
How to Make It:
• Steam a pear until soft, then drizzle with two teaspoons of honey.
• Enjoy warm to relieve dry throat and prevent seasonal discomfort.
Benefits:
Honey is known for its soothing and immune-boosting properties, and combining it with pears makes a fantastic remedy for fall dryness.
Who Should Avoid Eating Too Many Pears?
While pears are a great choice for most people, some should eat them in moderation:
1. People with sensitive stomachs or weak digestion – Since pears are naturally cooling, they may cause discomfort for those with a cold stomach.
2. People with diabetes – Pears contain natural sugars, so portion control is important (about 100g per serving is ideal).
3. Those who frequently wake up at night to urinate – Pears have a diuretic effect, so eating too many in the evening may lead to frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Final Thoughts
This fall, don't overlook the simple power of pears! Whether eaten raw or cooked, they help soothe dryness, support digestion, and even aid in weight control. Try one of the four golden pear recipes, and your body will thank you. Lykkers, how do you like to enjoy pears in the fall? Let us know your favorite pear recipes!
