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(NC)'Fiber is a very beneficial substance for your body. And when fiber is delivered in the delicious and sweet package of a fresh pear, it takes on a whole new level of appeal.

Pears are one of the most fiber-filled fruits around. With 4 grams of dietary fiber per serving (one medium sized pear, think the size of a baseball), pears are a good source of fiber ' one pear will give you about 18% of the recommended daily intake of fiber. More information about pear nutrition can be found at www.usapears.com.

In addition to its digestive tract benefits, fiber has a load of other health benefits including:

' Fiber slows how quickly sugar goes into the bloodstream, which may reduce peaks of blood sugar levels ' very important for diabetics.

' Low-fat diets rich in fruits and vegetables (foods that are low in fat and cholesterol and that contain dietary fiber and vitamins A and C) may reduce the risks of some types of cancer and coronary heart disease.

' For those on low-carb diets, the grams of fiber can be subtracted from the total carbohydrates because fiber stays undigested in the body.

For those looking to lose a few pounds, eating a high-fiber diet versus a low-fiber diet (calorie intake being equal) promotes postmeal "satiety," meaning we feel fuller and for longer after eating a high-fiber meal. Researchers from the State University of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil reported that overweight women who ate three small pears a day (about 300 grams total) lost more weight on a low-calorie diet than women who didn't add high-fiber fruit options to their diet. In addition, the fruit eaters ate fewer calories overall, boosting their weight loss efforts.

While you're enjoying a sweet delicious pear grown in the Pacific Northwest, remember that the compact package and ultra-sweet taste is rewarding your taste buds as well as your body.

- News Canada