Apples vs pears: Which fruit is better for your health

Apples and pears are among the most widely consumed fruits around the world. They’re easy to carry, affordable, and naturally sweet, making them an ideal everyday snack. But when it comes to nutrition, many wonder, which fruit is healthier? Both offer excellent benefits, but depending on your specific health goals, like improving digestion, managing blood sugar, or boosting antioxidants, one may be a better fit than the other. Here's a detailed comparison of apples and pears, based on science-backed nutrition data.



Apples vs pears: Nutritional breakdown shows similar calories and carbs

Both apples and pears are low in calories, fat-free, and rich in water content, making them hydrating and waistline-friendly. A medium apple contains around 95 calories, while a medium pear has slightly more at 101 calories. Carbohydrate content is also close—25 g in apples versus 27g in pears—but this small difference doesn’t significantly impact blood sugar in healthy individuals. What matters more is how those carbs are absorbed—which brings us to fibre content.




Pears offer more fibre for digestive and heart health

If you’re looking to increase your fibre intake, especially soluble fibre that supports heart health and blood sugar control, pears come out ahead. A medium pear offers about 6 grams of fibre, while a medium apple provides 4 grams. That’s a 50% difference in favour of pears.
Fibre is crucial for:

• Promoting regular bowel movements
• Lowering cholesterol levels
• Managing appetite and weight
• Slowing the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream

In fact, a 2019 systematic review in The Lancet concluded that diets rich in fibre significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer. If digestive health or blood sugar control is your priority, pears may give you a slight advantage.


Apples are higher in antioxidants and polyphenols

While pears offer more fibre, apples lead in antioxidant content, especially polyphenols like quercetin, catechin, and chlorogenic acid. These plant compounds protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation, making apples particularly heart-protective.

• Apples also contain more:
• Vitamin A and beta-carotene, which support vision and immune function
• Flavonoids, which may help regulate blood pressure and improve vascular health

Pears are not without antioxidants, but they contain fewer types and slightly lower levels overall.




Micronutrients of apple and pear: Different strengths, same benefits

Pears do contain antioxidants, but they generally offer fewer types and slightly lower levels compared to apples. When it comes to micronutrients, both apples and pears provide valuable vitamins and minerals, though their strengths differ slightly. Apples contain about 11% of your daily vitamin C needs, while pears provide 10%. Both fruits are good sources of potassium (around 200 mg per medium fruit), which is important for regulating blood pressure. Pears have the edge in vitamin K, copper, and folate, nutrients essential for blood clotting and red blood cell production. Meanwhile, both fruits offer lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants known for supporting long-term eye health. For those focused on healthy ageing and immunity, enjoying both apples and pears regularly can help ensure a broader, more balanced intake of key micronutrients.




Apples vs pears: Both are low in protein and fat

Neither apples nor pears contain significant protein or fat, with less than 1 gram of protein per fruit. This is normal for most fruits, but it means they may not keep you full for very long if eaten alone. That’s why dietitians often recommend pairing fruit with protein or healthy fats, such as:

• Nut butter (peanut, almond)
• Greek yoghurt or cottage cheese
• A handful of seeds or almonds

These pairings help balance blood sugar, reduce cravings, and provide longer-lasting energy.




Apple vs pear: Which fruit is better? It depends on your health goal

There’s no clear winner in the apples vs pears debate each fruit offers unique health benefits. If your goal is to improve digestion or feel fuller for longer, pears may be the better choice due to their higher fibre content. On the other hand, if you're looking to boost your antioxidant intake and support heart health, apples have the edge with their rich polyphenol profile. For most people, the best approach is to include both fruits in their diet. By doing so, you’ll enjoy a broader range of fibre, vitamins, and protective plant compounds to support overall health.

If you want to get the most from your fruit, keep the skin on , that’s where much of the fibre and antioxidants are concentrated.

When it comes to apples vs pears, you don’t have to choose just one. Both are smart additions to your diet that support digestion, heart health, and immunity. For maximum health benefit, rotate both fruits into your meals and snacks, and pair them with protein or healthy fats for balance. Whether you toss sliced pears into a salad or enjoy an apple with nut butter, you’re making a choice your body will thank you for.



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