The Best Dessert: Pears - Reducing Carcinogens After Grilling Meat
The seasons are changing, and the wind is getting chilly in the morning and evening. In such transitional periods, our immunity tends to weaken, making us more susceptible to colds. Pears have long been cherished for their ability to alleviate cold symptoms. Especially after enjoying grilled meat, eating pears as a dessert can have beneficial effects on the body. Let's explore the health benefits of pears, including their role in reducing carcinogens from grilled foods. We will now look closely at the health secrets and practical uses of pears.
Why Pears Reduce Carcinogens After Grilling
Charred foods contain carcinogens that can potentially cause colon and stomach cancer. The charred parts of grilled meat, in particular, can have negative health impacts. However, studies have shown that eating pears as a dessert after consuming such meat can effectively reduce the concentration of these carcinogens. According to experiments conducted by the Rural Development Administration and Seoul National University, consuming pears after eating grilled meat reduces the level of the carcinogen 1-OHP in the blood by approximately 40%.
The dietary fiber in pears, especially the unique stone cells, helps absorb the carcinogens produced by charred foods and expel them from the body. This fiber also supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, helping to maintain intestinal health, and may reduce the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Additionally, it removes plaque from the surface of the teeth, thereby contributing to oral health.
Minerals and Sugars in Pears Help Maintain Neutral Blood pH
Consuming acidic foods like meat can increase the risk of blood acidification, which negatively affects the body's metabolic balance. Pears help inhibit this acidification and maintain a neutral blood pH. Pears contain abundant minerals such as potassium and calcium, which regulate and maintain the body's acid-base balance.
Pear flesh contains various sugars, including sucrose, fructose, glucose, and sorbitol. Sorbitol, which is often used in foods for diabetics and cavity prevention due to its mild sweetness, is considered relatively healthy. However, excessive intake of sorbitol can cause digestive issues like diarrhea or abdominal pain, so it is best to limit consumption to less than 20g per day.
Compounds in Pears Help Eliminate Fatigue and Boost Immunity
Pears contain pectin and polyphenol compounds, which help stabilize blood pressure and improve circulation. These compounds contribute to the prevention of vascular diseases, and inhibit the activity of enzymes that cause coughing, asthma, and allergic reactions, thereby alleviating asthma symptoms and skin itching. Rich in organic acids, vitamin C, amino acids, and flavonoids, pears are particularly effective during the transitional seasons when immunity tends to decline.
The organic acids in pears, such as malic acid and citric acid, help break down fatigue-causing substances in the body and expel them. Thanks to these compounds, pears are also good for post-exercise recovery and are recommended for preventing colds.
Why Eating Pear Skin Is More Beneficial
The nutrients in pears are particularly abundant in the skin. Pear skin contains nearly four times the nutrients of the flesh, so it's best to wash them thoroughly and eat them whole. Varieties like Sweet Skin, Joy Skin, Hanareum, and Golden Pear are particularly suitable for eating with the skin. The skin is rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, which aid digestion by supporting bowel movement.
Pears can also be used as a natural meat tenderizer, making the texture softer. When used with fatty cuts like pork belly or beef, pears enhance the flavor and tenderness. However, using too much pear may make the meat overly soft, so it's important to use an appropriate amount.
Tips for Storing Pears
When storing pears, it is best not to keep them with apples. The ethylene gas released by apples accelerates the ripening of pears, causing them to soften quickly. Therefore, pears should be kept in a separate airtight container and stored in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator to keep them fresh for a longer time. Generally, pears can be kept fresh for about 7 to 10 days when refrigerated.
Various Health Uses of Pears
Pears can be used in a variety of ways beyond simply eating them as a dessert. Pear juice is effective for quenching thirst and recovering from fatigue, and it is also used as a natural cold remedy. When children or the elderly catch a cold, ground pear juice can help alleviate coughing. Additionally, a traditional remedy called "baesuk," made by boiling pears with honey, is known for easing asthma symptoms.
Pear salads are also very tasty. Pears are not overly sweet, making them pair well with other fruits or vegetables, and they provide a fresh and light taste when eaten with balsamic sauce. Since pears are low in sugar, they are also a guilt-free choice for those on a diet.
Foods That Pair Well with Pears
Pears are rich in potassium, so they go well with salty foods. Eating pears with high-sodium foods like pickled fish or kimchi helps to excrete sodium from the body and prevent high blood pressure. Pears also complement tofu well, as the vitamin C in pears and the protein in tofu combine to aid absorption and boost immunity.
Traditionally, pears are also used as a sauce ingredient in meat dishes. When added to dishes like braised ribs or bulgogi, pears make the meat tender and sweet while removing any unpleasant odors. This is due to the natural sugars and enzymes in pears that have a tenderizing effect.
Health Precautions When Eating Pears
Despite the numerous health benefits of pears, some precautions are needed. Pears can trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals. People sensitive to pears may experience tingling or swelling in their mouths, so it's advisable to start with a small amount to check for any allergic reactions.
Additionally, because pears contain a lot of water, excessive consumption may cause diarrhea. The sorbitol in pears can supply significant amounts of water to the large intestine and stimulate bowel movement. Especially for children, excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues or stomach discomfort, so moderation is key.
Pears: More Than Just a Fruit
As seen, pears are not just a simple dessert fruit; they play a crucial role in maintaining our health. By eating pears after grilled meat, you can reduce carcinogens and help maintain a neutral blood pH. Pears also have outstanding benefits for immunity boosting, fatigue recovery, and vascular health prevention. Next time you enjoy a meat dish, be sure to include pears for both health benefits and enhanced flavor — they are the ultimate dessert to keep you healthy and satisfied.
