Scientists discovered: pear peel fights intestinal inflammation

Salvation for the intestine: scientists discovered protective properties of pear peel in ulcerative colitis. Chinese researchers from Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences proved that polyphenols found in pear peel effectively reduce intestinal inflammation and protect its mucous membrane.

As reported by TUT.AZ with reference to Food & Function, laboratory studies demonstrated impressive results: pear peel polyphenols successfully suppress the production of inflammatory molecules in immune cells. Experiments on mice with artificially induced colitis showed that animals receiving these substances with food lost less weight, had reduced inflammation in the blood, and significantly less damage to colon tissues.

The influence of these plant compounds on the intestinal microbiota deserves special attention. Scientists found that under the influence of polyphenols, bacterial diversity increases significantly and the number of beneficial microorganisms that maintain mucosal integrity rises. At the same time, the population of bacteria associated with the development of inflammatory processes decreases.

Researchers also recorded a significant reduction in excessive immune system activity in the intestinal mucosa, including antigen recognition mechanisms. Antigens are substances perceived by the immune system as foreign, such as microorganisms, food components, or certain proteins.

Ulcerative colitis is characterized by hyperreaction of intestinal immune cells even to harmless antigens and beneficial bacteria, which leads to mucosal damage and chronic inflammation. Suppressing such excessive reaction is considered one of the key factors in protecting the intestine.

The authors of the scientific work emphasize the crucial role of fruit peel for digestive system health. According to their assessment, pear peel represents a promising functional food ingredient, although further clinical studies will be needed to confirm a similar effect in humans.