5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF UBE (AFRICAN PEAR)
Did you know that eating Ube, African pear can help protect women against postmenopausal breast cancer?
Ube has an indigo coloured covering over a greenish pulp and a firm seed inside; in shape, the fruit varies from oblong to cylindrical, measures 7cm in length and about 3cm in diameter. The African pear is packed with carbohydrates, fat (no cholesterol), vitamins (C, B1, B6, Folate, Niacin) and minerals (Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorous, Iron, and zinc).
Apart from the maximum satisfaction that is derived from pairing Ube with corn, they are also a number of health benefits your body will enjoy when you eat this fruit.
1.Helps to Maintain a Health skin
Ube is rich in vitamin C(more than oranges or lemon), an antioxidant. This vitamin works to fend off cell damage from free radicals. Consequently, it helps to improve the texture of your skin, makes it smoother and reduces wrinkles.
2.Good for the heart
African pear contains plenty of soluble fibre; high intake of soluble fibre reduces absorption of cholesterol and bile acid (which are also rich in cholesterol) from the small intestines, thereby reducing blood cholesterol level.
3.Fights against cancer
Ube is very rich in fibres; many studies in the last three decades have shown a link between increased fibre in-take and a decrease in colon cancer. This could be due to the fibre itself or the nutrients that are usually in fibre-rich foods such as vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and essential fatty acid. Daily consumption of pumpkin leaves is highly recommended and this is easily possible in West Africa through soups.
4.Strengthens bones and teeth
This buttery fruit contains a lot of calcium and phosphorus; minerals found mainly in the bones and teeth of our body. We should endeavour to eat enough African pear when in season to ensure strong bones, proper growth and good teeth development. We will also prevent stiff joint and bone pain.
5.Prevents constipation
African pear as said earlier is rich in fibre which adds bulk to stool, making bowel movement easier. Insoluble fibre does this better. When plenty of fibre is consumed, the stool is large and soft, this stimulates the muscles of the intestines to contract, pushing out the stool (faeces) without the individual straining himself.
